Description
Lot 1017
1987 Land Rover 90 M57 Engine Conversion
Reg. no. E698 JDD
Chassis no. SALLDVAD7AA303783
Engine no. 27556253
Transmission: Automatic
Mileage: 122, 000
Although not initially called the Defender, the iconic Land Rover was first produced from 1983 and was simply named the 90 or 110 depending on the wheelbase. After the Series III, Land Rover opted for coil springs for an improved ride, they updated the interior, modernised the exterior and widened the axles amongst other things meaning that their 4x4’s were no longer just works vehicles, but recreational too.
This particular 90 is not your average Land Rover. One of the most famous diesel engines throughout Europe is the BMW M57, a bullet proof, well-engineered and powerful motor that is now used as a popular engine swap not just in Land Rovers but many other cars for off-road, on-road and competition use. It fits perfectly well in the engine bay of the 90 and if it wasn’t for the BMW badge you wouldn’t know it wasn’t factory fitted. The engines offer great performance as standard, but this car has been tuned to produce 360bhp from its 3-litre turbo power plant. This results in what looks like a well spec’d, but standard looking, truck that can out-pace most cars on and off road.
The current owners are huge Land Rover enthusiasts and have done a fantastic job on this 4x4. It has just four previous owners. The bodywork is in great order having been re-painted just two years ago as well as being fitted with a new crossmember eight months ago. Additional changes to the truck include a Discovery 2 axle and suspension swap with 40mm lift, 6-speed BMW automatic transmission with syncromesh gearbox conversion to keep AWD. Ashcroft ATB front diff. to ensure that the power is fed to the Range Rover wheels and Cooper STT mud tyres, correctly. Performance is enhanced by a stainless exhaust, an aluminium radiator and an upgraded intercooler system. Inside, the car benefits from an Ashcroft 50th anniversary centre console and corbeau leather reclining seats.
The seller reports that the car was a Cat N due to an engine fire, hence deciding to shift to the M57 BMW motor and transmission. Any damaged items have been replaced since the fire, and with the BMW swap being so compatible with the Land Rovers, results in a factory-finish look. The engine was removed from a BWW 535D with 130, 000 miles. Anyone who know M57’s will be aware that these engines, when looked after, will exceed the 200, 000-mile marker. The car was serviced just 2, 000 miles ago. This 90 has 10 months MOT and comes with a current V5C. An iconic 4x4 fitted with a legendary engine.
Estimate: £16, 000 - 18, 000
To be auctioned along with a fantastic selection of other vehicles on October 15th at our Showell Farm site, SN15 2NU. Viewing is welcome prior to sale and all cars are sold as seen. Lots are not available to buy prior to auction. A fully illustrated catalogue is available on the Richard Edmonds Auctions website. Bids can be left with the auctioneer, made online, by telephone or live in person. All lots are subject to commission.
Vehicles that are un-registered or on foreign plates may require Import Duty and VAT to be paid upon purchase via HMRC prior to registering with the DVLA for a UK plate, if you are not sure please ask. For classic cars over 30 years this equates to 5% Duty on the final value.
