Highlights

Low mileage & Low Ownership
Recent extensive service
Highly desirable & capable vehicle

THE APPEAL

Globally renowned as one of the most robust and capable vehicles to ever have been produced, the Land Rover Defender is a respected and iconic vehicle that has become a sought-after car for a variety of users. Whether it be touring the deserts of Africa, helping on the farm or dropping the children off at school, the Defender will do it all and go where others can't, making it the number one choice for most.

This 2008, Defender 90 XS SW SWB is the perfect example of how a Defender should be. It's been kept in good shape and very original but has the occasional war wound and blemish. It has been well-maintained both here in the UK as well as during its time in France, even though its mileage has been minimal.

These all-terrain vehicles are incredibly diverse and sought after, a recent and extensive service, including brake discs, pads and callipers adds further appeal and longevity, a great opportunity to acquire a true workhorse and 4x4 icon.

THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK

UK vehicle registered January 2008
3 previous owners
Current owner purchased December 1st 2010 at 10,361 miles
Used in the UK until December 2015
The current owner then exported it to France, to use in the Alps
Mileage at export was 25,082 miles
Registered on French plates and used sparingly between 2016-2022
Re-registered in the UK in 2022 on original registration plate
Folder of past maintenance present, with invoices for previous serving in the UK & France - Prior UK MOT certificates and French equivalents included
MOT until November 2023
Recent invoice for specialist service and maintenance to the cost of £3,740
Lack of use and replacement vehicle encourage the sale

THE INTERIOR

Good- condition with some signs of use
Utilitarian design
3 Front seats
Two Rear fold-out seats

Inside the Defender, the design is very much utilitarian simplicity, with a touch of comfort. Designed to be hardwearing and tough, the general condition is good, with some signs of use present. The front seats appear to be free from damage, with the rear two fold-out seats, which are fully operational but in need of a good clean. While the focus inside is clearly robustness, you do get some convenient comforts too. Heated front seats, air conditioning and electric windows are all equipped, plus the seats are finished in a smart, almost luxurious partial leather. All very welcomed additions to the heavy-duty design.

THE EXTERIOR

Good condition with some marks and blemishes
Tamar Blue paint
16’’ Boost Alloy with 235/85 Continental AT Tyres
Black side steps

The appearance of the Defender is a recognisable sight worldwide. The ‘90’ station wagon is an evolution of its predecessors, utilising and improving on generations of Land Rovers, resulting in a vehicle that looks tough but is also versatile and capable. The aesthetics not only create a capable-looking vehicle, the short front end for example allows the vehicle to take on steeper approaches and descents, something most 4x4 struggle with. The condition of this Defender is overall good, with indications of its use present in a few places. There are a few scratches to the bodywork and arches, some more noticeable than others but a Defender is built to be used and with that taken into account, the general appearance is very good.

THE MECHANICS

2402cc Four-Cylinder Diesel
6-Speed Manual Transmission
Recent extensive service including brakes

During our visit, we manoeuvred the Defender multiple times, starting and stopping without any issues or dramatics. The 2.4L diesel operated comfortably, ran smoothly and revved healthily. The vehicle has recently benefited from an extensive specialist inspection and service, where brake discs, pads and callipers were renewed alongside an oil change and new filters.

With under 32,000 miles covered the vehicle has evidently been used sparingly, yet the current owner has ensured annual services have been commissioned. Some evidence of this maintenance is included in the paperwork, alongside UK & French MOT certificates where a record of the mileage increments is also visible. The operational health of the vehicle is reported to be in great working order, with no known issues present and as such, the vehicle is ready for work.

SUMMARY

Arguably one of the most impactful vehicles to be released to the world, the Defender is a true British great. From farms to faraway lands, these vehicles have proven time and time again their incredible effectiveness. Their ability to cover an array of terrains while also providing versatile sitting arrangements and practical boot space continues to amplify their appeal, even against more modern alternatives. With only 31,888 miles and recent thorough service, this Defender certainly stands out from the competition and should certainly sit high on your shopping list.

Notice to bidders

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.

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