Heralded the world over as a true "go anywhere, do anything" vehicle, Land Rover's Defender has near universal appeal, and thanks to a production run of almost 60 years there are many variants to choose from – all desirable and all worth investing in.
This is an early short wheelbase Station Wagon – officially badged as a ‘90’ – and benefits from a number of original features. However, it also features some choice improvements, including a set of modern wheels and tyres, a 200 TDi engine (regarded by many as the very best powerplant in the range) and a galvanised chassis to resist corrosion. It's also presented in a classic and desirable white-over-green colour scheme.
Defenders have long been popular and sought-after vehicles, mainly thanks to their wide-ranging ability and reliability, but they are also rapidly becoming very collectible. Whether you're after a workhorse or a potential investment opportunity, this Defender makes a strong case for itself.
The 90 has been with its current keeper since May 2007 and, during their ownership, has been substantially restored and improved. It has been used regularly for shooting and towing a horse-box, but following engine failure in 2014 the decision was taken to replace the original 2.5-litre powerplant with a 200 TDi unit – widely recognised as the most desirable and reliable engine in the range for a daily-use Defender.
It has covered just over 200,000 miles but had a change of odometer after the original one seized at 199,999 miles earlier this year, so the clock currently reads 2,996 miles. The owner assures us that the vehicle has always been well-maintained, and it comes with an MOT valid until April 2023.
When the car was rebuilt in 2007, the owner also had the three front seats re-trimmed in original-specification black vinyl, and they certainly look to be in fine condition, with minimal wear evident and no rips or tears we could see. The cabin also has a pop-out sunroof (ideal for shooting) and a radio/cassette system with CD changer control and Pioneer speakers. All of the instrumentation and switchgear are in good, usable condition and the owner assures us that everything works just as it should.
In the rear compartment, the original black vinyl bench seats are present and correct, as well as an easy-to-clean rubberised floor covering. These too are in very good order, with no more than expected wear and no evidence of damage or tears.
Overall, the cabin is in good order for a Defender of this vintage. There are a couple of cracks in the dashboard and some small tears affecting the door card on the driver's side, but these are fairly minor cometic issues and do not affect the operation of the car at all.
Finished in a deep shade of green with checker-plate protection panels on the sills and wing tops, this is a very smart looking Defender. Originally finished in blue, the owner decided to have it fully resprayed in its current specification when it was rebuilt.
It was rebuilt onto a new galvanised chassis in 2007 by Specialist 4x4 Services of Bishop Auckland, County Durham. This is a sensible upgrade as it provides significant corrosion protection over the standard chassis. The rebuild cost the vendor in excess of £3,500 and was clearly carried out to a high standard. As well as completely replacing the chassis, the bulkhead and floor panels were welded and sealed at the same time, to further improve the car's structure and protect the underside of the vehicle.
Recently, the owner has fitted later-style steel wheels purchased from Paddock 4x4, and had them shod with new tyres. They still have the old wheels and tyres, plus two good spare tyres, that will go with the vehicle. They have also upgraded the side lights and indicators to LED, fitted a new spot lamp to the rear, and early Lucas spot lamps to the front bumper. Other exterior features include side-steps to aid access to the cabin, a high-specification tow-hitch and a unique rear door stop which helps to keep the rear door open in windy conditions.
In terms of issues, there are only a couple of minor things to be noted. Firstly, it has a small amount of damage to one door mirror and there is a slight crease in the front bumper. Otherwise it presents in very good condition externally, with decent paintwork, straight panels and no evidence of notable damage or corrosion. Clearly, as well as being well-used, it's been very well cared for.
The original 2.5 turbo-diesel unit was replaced with a more modern and reliable 200 TDi engine in 2014. It's a great upgrade, providing more usable power (perfect for towing) and significantly better reliability. We're told by the owner that the mechanical aspects of the vehicle are in good order, with no known issues. The gearbox, including the high/low ratio transfer box, operates well and smoothly, with the vendor telling us the vehicle drives very well indeed.
When the car was rebuilt in 2007, the owner had the steering and suspension overhauled and refurbished. This included an upgrade to power steering, a great upgrade that makes the car far easier to drive both on and off road.
With such a well-maintained vehicle, and some choice upgrades, any new owner really can have confidence that this brilliant all-rounder has many more years of service left in it yet.
Wearing its history proudly ion its sleeve, with a great patina and some very well-executed upgrades, this smart Defender has lots going for it. It features what is probably the best drivetrain and has been very well maintained during the current keeper's ownership. Whether you want an interesting and practical daily, a workhorse that can do just about everything you could ever need, or just fancy something a little different to the usual, this Defender would be a great choice.
Of course, it's now of an age where it's eligible for export to the USA too, which only adds to its appeal. Well-presented, mechanically sound and extremely capable, this cracking vehicle is ready for a new owner to take it to new horizons.
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As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
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1985 Land Rover Ninety
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