Highlights

Finished in distinctive Nightfire Red
Original chassis retained, professionally repaired and undersealed in 2025
Fitted with the more desirable individual rear seats
Recent mechanical work including brakes, wheel bearings, shocks and exhaust

The Appeal

The TD5-era Defender 90 County occupies a sweet spot for enthusiasts: modern enough to be genuinely usable yet unmistakably old-school in character, with the rugged simplicity and go-anywhere ability that made the Defender a legend. The 2001 model year sits among the last of the pre-Puma Defenders, and good, honest examples are increasingly sought after.

This particular Defender 90, affectionately known as "Clifford," stands out in its striking Nightfire Red finish and has been maintained with a clear philosophy, keeping it mechanically sound and ready to use rather than letting it languish as a project. The original chassis has been retained and was professionally repaired and welded in 2025 before being thoroughly undersealed, and the bulkhead is reported to be in good condition. Recent mechanical work has been extensive, with new rear shock absorbers, front wheel bearings, discs and pads all round, and a stainless-steel exhaust all fitted during current ownership. All four track rod ends are also being replaced prior to sale, along with a service and fresh MOT.

Inside, the cabin presents well for its age, with upgraded Puma Defender front seats complementing the exterior colour and the more desirable individual rear seats in place of the usual bench. The dashboard, instruments and switchgear are all reported to function correctly, and there is no evidence of damp or water ingress. Mechanically largely factory standard with no engine or ECU modifications, the TD5 engine is described by the vendor as starting on the button every time with no smoke, and the four-wheel-drive system, including low range and centre differential lock, operates as it should. The vendor describes this as a characterful Defender that is incredibly enjoyable to drive, particularly on country roads.

Key Information

Mileage: 130,864 miles (supported by MOT history)
Country of registration: United Kingdom
MOT status: valid until 14th December 2026; a fresh MOT to be provided prior to sale
Technical specs: 2,500cc TD5 diesel, five-speed manual, four-wheel drive
Paperwork: evidence of servicing during current ownership available, we are told
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The Detail

Service including oil and fuel filters to be carried out prior to auction
All four track rod ends to be replaced prior to sale
Chassis repairs and welding carried out in 2025, followed by protective undersealing
Bulkhead reported in good condition
Vendor notes new rear shock absorbers, front wheel bearings, and discs and pads all round fitted during current ownership
Stainless-steel standard-style exhaust fitted
Spring added to clutch mechanism for a lighter pedal feel
Front seats upgraded to Puma Defender seats
Rear fitted with individual seats rather than a bench
Interior features a combination of carpet and rubber matting
Dashboard instruments, warning lights and switchgear all reported to function correctly
Factory-fitted alarm and immobiliser, plus original built-in pedal lock
Roof rack fitted
Pioneer stereo fitted and working, with USB charging sockets in the rear
Heater reported to work well
Headlining clean with a small amount of age-related sag
Minor scratches and bubbling visible in the dark red paintwork
Bodywork in good usable condition with minor age-related marks and imperfections
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BEFORE YOU BUY

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