Highlights
- Just over 7,000 miles from new
- One of the last of the original Land Rover Defenders
- Immensely practical seven-seater, long-wheelbase station wagon
The Appeal
While Land Rover now enjoys success with its new Defender, we were sad to see the demise of the original whose lineage could be directly traced all the way back to the first Series 1s in 1948. First registered on 22nd August 2016, this is one of the last of the old separate chassis Defenders, which we think makes it rather special.
We note that this Land Rover has only covered a little over 7,000 miles in its lifetime and therefore it remains in really good condition. If you’re one of the many people who’ve always wanted to get your hands on an original Defender, then this is a great opportunity.
The History and Paperwork
- V5C present
- MOT valid until December 2023
- Has never failed an MOT or accrued any advisories
- Accompanied by a printed copy of the Land Rover online service record
- Four recorded services with SHB Hire Ltd Southampton
- The vendor informs us that there are five stamps in the service book
- Last recorded service was in January 2020 at 4,776 miles
The Interior
- Looks to be entirely original and unmodified
- Little wear to speak of
- Forward facing folding third row of seats
Being a Defender, it should come as no surprise that the interior is functional and utilitarian.
There is little wear to speak of and the only thing we spotted right away was some slight deterioration to the steering wheel centre.
All seven of the seats exhibit few signs of use and we like how this Defender is fitted with the forward facing third row. These two seats can spend most of their life tucked up out of the way, ready to be deployed when you suddenly need to become a minibus.
The protective floor mats are in good order and the same goes for the headlining. We couldn’t see any damage to the dashboard either and all the switchgear looks to be in fine shape.
These interiors are very hard wearing and since this Land Rover has seen little use, everything is in great condition.
The Exterior
- Indus Silver
- Straight bodywork
- Exoskeleton roll cage and snorkel fitted
This Defender looks particularly purposeful with those big tyres, snorkel and exoskeleton roll cage. You could be on the next boat to the wilderness with nothing left to do other than pack your toothbrush, which is part of what makes these vehicles so appealing.
The Indus Silver paintwork appears in good condition. On the day the photographs were taken the car was a little grubby but we can forgive a Land Rover for splashing in muddy puddles! The bodywork appears really straight and we couldn't see any dents or indications that it has seen a great deal of off-road use.
Underneath, the chassis looks really sound and while there is a little surface corrosion making itself known in places, everything appears in great shape. It retains its original five-spoke alloys which remain in good condition and the General Grabber tyres offer a good compromise for use on and off the beaten track.
The Mechanics
- 2.2-litre turbocharged diesel engine
- Looks smart under the bonnet
- Apparently drives well with no issues to report
Equipped with a 2.2-litre diesel engine, this Defender is not the car to take on track days, but this immensely dependable powertrain proves exceedingly effective when being asked to work hard or traverse challenging terrain. With a six-speed manual gearbox, this car is sufficiently long-legged to tackle motorways which makes it a great all-rounder.
We’re informed that it drives really well and the vendor does not report any faults.
Summary
There’s something very lovable about the original Defender and whether you’d put it to work or have a fun family weekend wagon, this Defender will undoubtedly be a great addition to your driveway.
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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