Beschreibung
Prepare yourself for floods, mud and snow... Here's a totally one-off, extensively modified, MOT'd and road legal 'go anywhere' Land Rover Defender 90.
At a glance:
- 1991 Land Rover Defender 90
- 2. 5 litre petrol, manual gearbox, four wheel drive
- 137, 324 miles
- Massively capable off road
- Current MOT until 10th March 2019, will come with New MOT
- HPI Clear
- Petrol engined so LEZ compliant (unlike most diesel 4x4 light utility vehicles pre 2002)
* more hi-res images available upon request*
Heavily modified with the following upgrades...
Exterior:
- Old Man Emu 3" lift kit and uprated springs and dampers fitted by Surrey 4x4
- Old Man Emu steering damper
- 5x General Grabber AT2 265/ 75/ 16 tyres all with 10mm+ tread
- Safari Snorkel
- Tubular front winch bumper
- Britpart DB12000i with wired remote - rated at 12, 000lbs or 5443kgs
- Swing out rear spare carrier frame with hi-lift jack mounting
- Roof bar with spotlights x 4
- LED angel eye headlights and clear indicators
- Stainless front grille & light panels
- Full diamond plate kit
- Galvanised Tree sliders
- Aluminium box section body sliders
- Aluminium front steering guard
- Rear roof ladder
- WS steel rear corner guards
- Front and rear QT steel diff ski guards
- Scorpion door decals, removable if they are not to your liking.
Interior:
- Exmoor trim Extreme Front seat squabs and backs.
- Exmoor trim fold up rear seats x2 (inward facing) with seat belts
- Loadspace bulkhead removal bar - cutaway to improve driving seat reach & recline without losing structural integrity - an absolute must for any tall drivers
- Wright Off-Road sound proofing kit in front and back
- Polished aluminium gear knobs
- Centre roof storage console with speakers
- Raptor centre dashboard console
- Raptor lockable centre cubby box with twin cupholders
- Nikkai A66HY bluetooth USB radio/ CD
- Midland Alan 48 plus CB radio
- Parking sensors. Yes indeed, it has rear reversing sensors!
Mechanical:
- Replacement rebuilt 2495cc petrol engine from Wards Engineering of Rugby in 2014
- Duraflex blue front and rear bolybushes
- Recent front discs and pads & rebuilt rear brakes
- Axle and transmission breather system feeding to snorkel
- Just had a 12, 000 mile service prior to sale, a brand new exhaust, and the carb adjusted for optimal running.
The Model:
The iconic and unique Land Rover Defender (initially called the Land Rover Ninety and Land Rover One Ten) was developed in the 1980s from the original Land Rover Series which was launched at the Amsterdam Motor Show in April 1948. The first coil sprung Land Rover was introduced in 1983 as "Land Rover One Ten", and in 1984 the "Land Rover Ninety" was added – the numbers representing the respective wheelbases in inches. In 1989, a third model was introduced by Land Rover to be produced in parallel with the One Ten and Ninety and Range Rover: the Discovery. To avoid possible confusion, the 1991 model year Ninety and the One Ten were renamed the "Defender 90" and "Defender 110" to distinguish the model from the Discovery. Superficially there is little to distinguish the post-1983 vehicles from the Series III Land Rover. A full-length bonnet, revised grille, plus the fitting of wheel arch extensions to cover wider-track axles are the most noticeable changes. Initially the conservative engineering department insisted that the Land Rover was also available with a part-time 4WD system familiar to derivatives produced since 1949. However the part-time system failed to sell and was quickly dropped from the options list by 1984. While the engine and other body panels carried over from the Series III mechanically the 90 and 110 were modernised, including:
Coil Springs offering a more comfortable ride and improved axle articulation
A permanent four-wheel-drive system derived from the Range Rover, featuring a two-speed transfer gearbox with a lockable centre differential
A modernised interior
A taller one-piece windscreen
A new series of progressively more powerful and modern engines
The 110 was launched in 1983, and the 90 followed in 1984. This period saw Land Rover market the utility Land Rover as a private recreational vehicle, while the basic pick-up, 4x4 and van versions were still working vehicles. The switch from leaf spring to coil spring suspension was a key part of the new model's success. It offered improved off-road ability, load capacity, handling, and ride comfort. After a continuous run of 67 years production finally ended on 29 January 2016 when the last Land Rover Defender rolled off the production line. Since being discontinued, the popularity and value of 90, 110 and Defender models has risen dramatically as the cult following for these iconic vehicles goes from strength to strength.
The specification:
This 1991 Defender was originally both white and diesel powered, but now appears considerably more handsome having been repainted in dark grey, and has undergone a comprehensive programme of extensive (and expensive) modifications to turn it into the unique off-road monster you see today, as detailed above. This Defender also has a host of charming retro features: wind up windows, doors that lock and unlock with a key, chunky switches and knob controls for the heating/ cooling and a total lack of touch screens in the middle of the dash board. It's refreshingly 'old school' on the inside and the outside. Another reason why people enjoy these retro off-roaders is their sheer simplicity; no warning messages advising you to go to your nearest dealer, no overly complex electronics and no 'limp mode' - it's a traditional 4x4 which you can repair with a spanner rather than a laptop. As a result, servicing, maintenance and repairs are a breeze in comparison to more modern, often overly complex vehicles. Parts are plentiful and fraction of the price of parts for a modern Mercedes, BMW or Audi, and if a component fails or falls off, just bolt on another one. It really is that simple. They were designed to be maintained whilst in use on the farm, forest, mountain, desert or battleground, so everything is simple and within the grasp of simple tools and modest mechanical knowledge.
The Defender currently has seating for four (two front seats, plus two rear fold up single seats) but you could easily add another 2 fold up seats to make it a 6 seater, or 7 seater if you replace the centre cubby box with another seat. The single folding seats are about £90 each here on eBay, or you can get a pair of bench seats for about £125 (which will accommodate up to three persons each, making this potentially a 9 seater...)
Mileage:
This car has covered 137, 324 miles - an average of just over 5, 000 miles per year over its 27 year life.
On the Road:
These Defenders are like nothing else on the road. They have immense charm and character, and a fabulous 'Tonka Toy' feel to their classic, chunky design, both inside and out. The Defender starts first turn of the key, with just a hint of choke, the 2. 5 petrol engine offers a much smoother and less agricultural driving experience, whilst offering similar grunt and torque. It surges eagerly under acceleration, starts, stops and does what it should. This particular Defender drives exceptionally well in comparison to most of this age, no doubt due to the huge investment over recent years. The ride quality is 'unique' in any Defender, especially having been lifted, so expect a bouncy ride and you have to keep your wits about you as it's not like driving a Honda Jazz. However, the steering is precise and the brakes are effective (both of which can be unusual in an early Defender) Any small sacrifices in terms of on-road handling and precision, result in gains in exceptional off road ability and go-anywhere agility.
Engine:
The larger petrol engine was launched in 1985 (having been developed under the codename 'Project Harrier') and, like its 2. 25-litre predecessor it had much in common with the diesel engine. The block was identical, as were most ancillary parts. The key difference was that the petrol engine retained its timing chain, since it lacked the need to drive an injector pump. The cylinder head was adapted to use unleaded fuel. As before, the engine was smooth and refined, and provided the Land Rover with adequate road performance. However, as fuel prices rose and diesel engines improved, sales of the petrol engines fell, especially in Europe. It remained a popular option in Africa and other areas where fuel prices or the simplicity of the engine made it an attractive option. It remained available until 1994; By this time buyers were limited to those with specific reasons to buy petrol-engined vehicles- for example several UK police forces bought fleets of 2. 5 petrol Defenders in the mid-1990s because a diesel-engined vehicles would have caused maintenance and logistical problems when operated alongside the fleet of standard petrol fuelled patrol cars.
Layout: 4-cylinder, in-line
Block/ head: Cast iron/ cast iron
Valves: OHV, chain drive camshaft, push-rod operated
Capacity: 2, 495 cc (152. 3 cu in)
Bore × stroke: 90. 47 mm × 97 mm (3. 562 in × 3. 819 in)
Compression ratio: 8:1
Carburettor: Weber
Power: 83 hp (62 kW) @ 4, 200 rpm
Torque: 133 lbf?ft (180 N?m) @ 2, 000 rpm
Production: 1985–1994
Transmission:
This Defender comes with the renowned LT77 (Leyland Transmissions, 77mm between main and lay shafts) It changes gear as it should, the clutch is also as it should be.
MOT:
Current MOT runs until 10th March 2019, will be supplied with 12 months MOT.
Condition:
As you can probably see from the pictures, this has been modified for off-road usage. There's no significant visible damage other than a few marks here and there, but please be aware its not in showroom condition for obvious reasons. It comes with 'patina' as all these Defenders all tend to do. It’s always difficult to express in words the condition of any Land Rover, and most people have differing opinions about condition, so the best way to get a true impression will be to view this lovely Defender in person. I’m confident that anybody with realistic expectations will be delighted to own and enjoy this awesome four wheel drive. The best way to work out if it is the right car for you, would be to come and have a look.
To answer a few of the most likely questions in advance:
Isn't the diesel engine more desirable?
Traditionally yes, but due to the recent fall from grace for diesel engines, Low Emissions Zone in London affecting diesel Land Rovers, tougher new MOT regulations specifically for diesel vehicles, and possibility that diesels will be charged for (or eventually banned from) going into town centres in the future, it could be that petrol is now the way to go, and it may turn out to be an inspired choice for the future. If so, no doubt the price of petrol powered Defenders will skyrocket accordingly, as they are far more scarce than the numerous turbo weasels diesels
Will my mother-in-law enjoy being a passenger?
Unlikely, unless she has very long legs, a head for heights and a strong constitution, or copious amounts of valium in advance.
Does it come with cup holders?
Oh yes, and if you fill them with mud by accident, you can just hose down the interior in true Land Rover style.
Will I be able to fit Jemima and Tarquin in the rear?
Indeed you will, as there are a pair of fold-out inward-facing rear seats arranged to allow for maximum legroom. So if you would like to take your charming cherubs to their school or local Waitrose, they'll be perfectly fine bouncing around in the back and whooping with excitement.
What's my best price?
That's a closely guarded secret. Feel free to make an offer and I'll let you know if you are close, or holidaying on fantasy island.
Does it come with a 24 month unlimited mileage warranty?
Alas no, highly modified 27 year old Defenders do not come with the same level of warranty you'd get with an 'Approved Used' car from a main dealer.
What payments do you accept?
Bank transfer is preferred, cash or debit and credit cards are also accepted, but we are charged fees for taking card payments. Gold bullion, crypto-currency, fake watches, timeshares and livestock are regrettably not accepted.
Do you take part exchange?
Sometimes, depending on what you are looking to exchange and how much you want for it, in accordance with eBay terms and conditions of course.
Pricing:
The general value range for these legendary modified Defenders with this year/ specification is normally £6000 - £12, 000 with TD5, late model, and immaculate examples priced considerably higher - up to £60k here on eBay! This Defender is offered to sell swiftly at a very tempting £6950.
Conclusion:
I can't quite explain it, but this Defender really ticks the boxes for me. Perhaps it appeals to the inner 'small child' part of my brain? Perhaps childhood memories of Tonka Toys chasing down pedestrian Barbies and damaging skirting boards? That might also explain this jovial description. Who knows? This Defender also appeals to my 'grown up' brain as it looks like outstanding value, as there could be well over £4, 000 worth of modifications carried out, and it would probably cost this much extra to buy another Defender and modify it yourself. This is a hugely entertaining 'proper' 4x4 with superb traction and ultimate 'go anywhere' credentials, it’s sure to put a smile on your face with every mile. They are great for summer expeditions, or over winter, they are a sure-footed, go-anywhere, faithful companion. Alternatively, it's an occasional bit of fun for some serious off road, green laning or mud-plugging adventures.
Contact:
Please feel free to call or email me for further information. I’m more than happy to have a chat about this unique Defender and you are welcome and positively encouraged to come to view. I hope you will appreciate that this is an honest Land Rover, honestly priced and honestly sold.
Please call me on the details below or email via the 'email the seller' link at the top of the page.
Viewings by arrangement, at a time convenient to you.
The car is located in Lymington on the southern edge of the New Forest approximately 30 minutes by road from Bournemouth and Southampton. ?If you wish I am happy to collect you from Brockenhurst station which is only 90 minutes from London Waterloo on the mainline from London to Weymouth and Poole, with direct trains also calling at Brockenhurst from Manchester, Birmingham, Oxford, Reading etc.
