Highlights

Replacement 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine
Recently resprayed in Keswick green with a new tan canvas hood
Annually serviced for the last fourteen years at a garage specialising in Land Rovers, we are told
The vendor reports a sound chassis that sits straight
MOT valid until July 2027

The Appeal

The short-wheelbase Defender 90 in soft-top form is one of the most evocative configurations in the Land Rover lineage, combining go-anywhere ability with a pared-back, open-air character that connects directly to the earliest Series models. Earlier examples like this 1986 vehicle, produced before the Defender name was formally adopted, are increasingly sought after for their no-nonsense simplicity.

This particular example, fitted with a replacement 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine in place of the original 2.5-litre unit, has been in the current owner's care since December 2012, having previously served as an agricultural vehicle fitted with a front cab and Ivor Williams rear truck cover. It was converted to a full soft-top configuration in 2013 and has since led a gentle life on a small estate, used daily but sparingly and barn-stored when not in service. A recent respray in Keswick green, paired with a new tan canvas hood and Exmoor Trim sand canvas seat covers, gives it a smart and cohesive appearance, while BF Goodrich all-terrain tyres and a snorkel complete the look. Having been annually serviced at a garage specialising in Land Rovers for the last fourteen years, we are told, and with an MOT valid until July 2027, it presents well as a usable, well-maintained example. The vendor describes it as a head-turner that always starts first time and is great to drive.

Key Information

Mileage: 106,241 miles indicated
Country of registration: United Kingdom
Technical inspection status: MOT valid until July 2027
Technical specs: 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine, five-speed manual (DVLA still notes 2,495cc engine)
Paperwork: V5C and MOT certificate supplied
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The Detail

Purchased by the current owner in December 2012; previously used as an agricultural vehicle
Converted to a full soft top in 2013
New Exmoor Trim sand canvas seat covers fitted
Fitted with BF Goodrich all-terrain tyres
Fitted with a snorkel
The vendor states the bodywork is in good condition for the age with the usual minor dents
The vendor describes the interior as clean and functional
Barn-stored when not in use
One minor MOT defect; drag link end ball joint dust cover damaged or deteriorated, but preventing the ingress of dirt, and one advisory; front suspension arm ball top joint has slight play
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BEFORE YOU BUY

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