Description
Short version:
Good Bits:
+Fresh resto and repaint
+almost new BFG KM3 tyres x5 and spare all season road tyres x5 included with 80% tread
+many new panels, full rust treatment
+300tdi simplicity and reliability
+new carpet and interior trims
+black headliner to set the mood
+new timing belt
+fresh full service
+service history from myself and the previous owner, 3 keys.
+Extensive list of new parts fitted
+12 months MOT
+heated windscreen
+Snorkel for those UK summers
+uprated intercooler and downpipe
+roof rack and accessories included
+mechanical PTO driven winch
+bright red tow hitch
Bad bits:
-high miles (but recently restored)
-300tdi = it is not fast
- separate key for ignition and door locks, it doesn't bother me but i'm used to quirky vehicles at this point.
-its really tall! invest in some folding side steps if you don't like jumping into it.
-shocks and springs due an upgrade but this is a choice for the next owner. (I would personally take softer rear springs if your going to drive it empty most of the time).
Located Consett. I’m happy to answer questions or arrange a viewing for genuinely interested buyers. Open to sensible offers. All keys and history included (private plate not included)
Interested in a cheaper PX with cash my way. anything considered. Modern or classic. commercial or custom.
Long Version:
1997 Land Rover Defender 130 — recently restored and in fantastic shape. If you know these trucks, you’ll know how rare it is to find one that’s not battered and bruised or rusting from beneath so when I stumbled upon this one I saw the potential and over the last few years have built it until its as you see today.
It’s running the legendary 300Tdi turbo diesel engine, paired with a 5-speed R380 gearbox. Alisport Intercooler for reliability, recent service, MOT and T-Belt, bearings etc etc. Starts first turn of the key, pulls strong in every gear and sounds exactly as it should — simple, solid, mechanical, and ready for anything. The 4WD system works as it should, with high and low range selectable easily and moving freely. It even includes some option extras from land rovers special vehicle department. These include the massive PTO winch mounted to a heavy duty front bumper which still works great. rock rails down each side and a cold weather choke (never needed to use it myself).
The restoration was done properly. Chassis has been cleaned, treated, and preserved — absolutely no rust or hidden horrors underneath.
The bodywork is where it really stands out. It’s been completely resprayed in Phoenix Orange with a Santorini Black roof and accents, reminiscent of the last of the line Adventure models and the finish is stunning. The colour combo brings a modern, head-turning twist to the classic Defender silhouette without losing the original attitude. It’s bold without being over the top — still every bit a Land Rover, just with a fresh, confident edge.
Panel condition is better than new, everything was dismantled repaired (or replaced in the case of the doors and outer wings). To preserve this vehicle for the future a comprehensive body resto was undertaken with special attention paid to corrosion resistance. All panels were stripped back before being sealed with two coats of Epoxy primer and repainted to prevent any future worry about rust. Additionally all possible fixtures were replaced with stainless steel and treated to a coat of marine grade anti galvanic paste then all panels were sprayed with internal/ external wax oil wherever it could go. New seals, rubbers, grommets, door hinge bolts, everything that opens and closes was dismantled and replaced as required. You won’t see another quite like it.
Interior has been refreshed too — New Exmore trim black canvas seat covers wrap the clean original seats, fully retrimmed headliner, black door cards and fittings tidy dash, new heated front windscreen, new centre console and a heater that actually works! Tires are fresh, and the brakes have plenty of life in them. It’s ready to drive, not a project or something that “just needs a little finishing.” It’s finished, but still has room to put your own stamp on it.
It would make an ideal base for an overland, V8 performance build, a truck to take to shows, use as a promo vehicle for events, or simply a reliable old Landy to enjoy on weekends. If you’re after a classic Defender that’s been given a new lease on life without losing its original character, this might be the one.
Located Consett. I’m happy to answer questions or arrange a viewing for genuinely interested buyers. Open to sensible offers. All keys and history included (private plate not included)
Thanks for looking.
MichaelThis car is a pure slice of analogue in the modern world. I still love driving it to this day. The feedback from the controls and the small shakes and vibrations in the cab as you drive, the way its smells and sounds, the feeling of the breeze blowing in through the open dash vents on a warm day out driving in the countryside... it is quite addictive. That is to say, its still a defender, its not quite like driving anything else (for better or worse) and If I didn't have to sell it I wouldn't be but unfortunately it doesn't fit with new developments in life.
I liked the look of it the first time I saw it even though it has ended up a long way from that truck I bought. I hope the next person who comes to own it gets the same sense of satisfaction when they look out over it and hope that it is as reliable and fun to own as it has been for me.
