Description
# For sale – Land Rover Defender Rapier V8 3. 5 – 1990
## A rare piece – Only 214 made
I’m selling my 1990 ** Land Rover Defender Rapier**, an iconic and particularly hush-hush version of the Defender. Produced in just ** 214 examples**, the Rapier is now one of the rarest and most sought-after models for Land Rover enthusiasts and collectors.
### Key features
* ** Year:** 1990
* ** Engine:** V8 3. 5 petrol
* ** Gearbox:** 5-speed manual
* ** Mileage:** 37, 735
* ** Colour:** original khaki green
* ** Roadworthiness (MOT):** valid
* ** Brand-new tyres**, replaced in 2026 (invoice provided 235/ 85/ R16)
* ** Engine fully rebuilt in 2025** by DLS France (invoice provided)
This Defender has always been carefully maintained and has ** always been stored in a locked garage**, which is why it presents such a fantastic state of preservation. Everything is original, not modified, and never used off-road.
The bodywork is in ** very good overall condition**, perfectly consistent with a vehicle that’s over 36 years old. It has a lovely patina and retains all the charm of this now-legendary model. It’s fitted with a winch, and today it’s in bikini spec, but the hoops and the cover that goes over the whole thing are included in the sale price.
### Reassuring maintenance history
The vehicle is sold with a ** complete folder of invoices dating back to 2012**, allowing you to trace its maintenance and the work carried out over the years. This level of follow-up is a genuine guarantee of seriousness and transparency.
In addition to routine servicing, the other work carried out is as follows:
- 2013: clutch slave cylinder replacement / gearbox, front and rear diff oil change
- 2014: front brake pads replacement / alternator belt / clutch slave cylinder
- 2019: chassis scraping and treatment at Land Service
- 2020: conversion to FFVE “CG Collection” registration certificate
- 2021: rear fuel tank & fuel gauge replacement
- 2023: oil changes for front/ rear diffs, gearbox, transfer case
- 2024: battery replacement
- 2025: V8 engine reconditioning at DLS France
- 2026: replacement of 4 tyres and radiator
Since the V8 engine has been ** fully rebuilt in 2025**, the next owner will enjoy a properly overhauled, “new” mechanical setup—while keeping the authenticity of this collector’s model.
### Why is this Defender so special?
The ** Rapier** isn’t like any other Defender. With production limited to ** 214 examples**, it’s one of the most exclusive runs ever sold by Land Rover. Finding one for sale is extremely rare, and even more so when it comes with a documented history, a recently rebuilt engine, and such meticulous condition.
Imported from England on 06/ 10/ 2010 by the DREAL as a one-off. An ex-UK army vehicle retired from service, equipped with an engine configuration not found in France on the vehicle chassis at the time of circulation. The chassis has been stretched and strengthened to go from 110 to 127, and it features a specific body/ bed for this series of Land Rover military vehicles called the Land Rover 127 Rapier.
Whether you’re a collector, a Land Rover enthusiast, or simply looking for an exceptional Defender, this Rapier represents a unique opportunity to own such a rare and iconic vehicle.
** Price: €27, 000**
For any further information, more photos, or to arrange a viewing, feel free to contact me. An appraisal/ expertise folder is available on request and can be viewed in the Cher area (Sancerrois / Sologne / Pays Fort).
I’ve owned it since April 2015 and I’m selling it to fund another Land Rover project :)
