Highlights

Former military ‘Truck Utility Light’ (TUL) vehicle, first civilian registered in July 2015
Presented in superb overall condition, still in military guise
Powered by the famously rugged and dependable 300 TDi engine

The Appeal

The British Armed Forces have depended upon Land Rovers for three quarters of a century and it’s easy to see why. Utilitarian, simple and boasting excellent off-road ability, the Land Rover has long been perfectly suited to operating in hostile environments and this 1997 Wolf is amongst the most capable military Land Rovers ever made.

Equipped with the famously rugged and dependable 300 TDi engine, the Wolf was re-engineered to deal with the nature of a warzone. A reinforced rear axle was fitted that included stronger internals, hubs and outer casings. The chassis was also uprated, and special Goodyear G90 tyres were specifically designed to fit the Wolf’s bespoke wheels.

This exceedingly smart example entered military service in 1997 and was discharged in 2015. With their vital role, MoD Land Rovers are of course judiciously maintained throughout their time in service and we understand that even after starting its civilian life, this 90 has been carefully looked after to this day. If you’re looking for a prime example of a military Land Rover, few are anywhere near as smart as this one.

The History and Paperwork

First ordered for the British Army in 1997, little is known about the service life of this Wolf although it does not appear to have been used in harsh conditions
Once it left the army, this Land Rover lived in the Grantham area where it has been looked after by a few owners who have all lived fairly near to each other
The MOT expired on 11th January 2023
KPH speedometer / odometer
V5C present
Accompanied by its previous MOT certificate

The Interior

Largely original military specification
In very good overall condition
Now fitted with an ieGeek MP3 stereo complete with speakers, removal keys and manual

The interior of a Defender is very much function over form, designed to work and put up with regular use. From simple sliding windows to 24v radio equipment, it is a masterstroke of simple engineering.

Although this Land Rover was built to enter war zones, it is clear that it has been looked after during its active life, with the front seats being in fantastic condition and showing few signs of wear and tear. Alongside the front seats, the rear two benches are in great condition.

The dashboard presents really well, with military electrical equipment still present. All the instrumentation looks to be in good order, as does the switchgear with barely any wear to report. The controls exhibit little in the way of wear and the pedals retain all their rubbers. Hard-wearing rubber mats protect the floors and there’s also matting covering the transmission tunnel and inside of the bulkhead.

Besides the fitment of the MP3 stereo, this interior appears incredibly original and has survived remarkably well for an ex-military Land Rover of this vintage.

The Exterior

Repainted shortly after leaving military service
Retains its military colour scheme and exterior appointments
Canvas tilt finished in olive drab

This Wolf must be amongst the straightest Land Rovers of this vintage around. The fact that it was a military example makes its fantastic condition even more remarkable. The bodywork does not wear any big dents or indeed any signs of electrolytic corrosion. The chassis and running gear appears incredibly sound and we’re informed that it has been regularly treated with WaxOyl in recent years. Similarly, we didn’t detect any corrosion to the bulkhead, rear crossmember or indeed in any of the usual trouble spots. In short, this appears to be a truly exemplary specimen.

The vendor informs us that the body was repainted shortly after leaving military service in the same satin finish that was applied from new. It also retains a number of military accessories including a pickaxe and spade mounted atop the bonnet. There’s also a side mounted spare wheel, antenna equipment on the front wings and heavy duty towing equipment front and rear. The vendor has also discreetly fitted a conventional civilian tow bar that neatly stows away underneath the vehicle when not in use.

It sits upon specially designed Wolf wheels, shod with their correct Goodyear G90 tyres. The canvas tilt is in great condition and provides the ability to turn the Land Rover into an open pickup should more space be needed.

The Mechanics

300 TDi engine
Five-speed manual gearbox
Four-wheel drive and low range

The highly regarded 300 TDi engine was chosen for the Wolf on account of its legendary reliability and relative lack of electrical components. The vendor reports that this example runs and drives well, with no issues to report.

It looks to be immensely smart under the bonnet, with no evidence of major leaks. With the proper maintenance - which we understand this example to have had all its life - there’s no reason why these Land Rover’s won’t continue to fulfil their important role almost indefinitely. If you’re looking for a dependable example, we can certainly recommend this one.

Summary

A Wolf Defender in this condition is tough to find, so don’t let this one pass you by. Whether you’re in need of a rugged off-roader, or are a collector with an eye for excellent examples, this Land Rover will certainly suit your needs.

Notice to bidders

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