Highlights
- Registered as a historic vehicle with the Automotoclub Storico Italiano (ASI)
- Has received extensive and documented maintenance over the last ten years
- Equipped with original Land Rover overdrive gearbox
- Variable geometry turbocharger
- Engine, gearbox and overdrive completely overhauled at 187,000 km
- Interior configurable in various ways thanks to camper conversion kit
- Certified rollover protection, anchored with 6 points to the chassis and reinforced with a 4-point inner arch
The Attractions
True, the Defender name still identifies a modern and very capable SUV. But can the new models ever offer the same appeal as the original? We doubt it. If you want the authentic Land Rover experience, this well-presented and competently equipped 1997 Defender L316 could be the perfect car.
Type-approved as a 9-seater and registered as a historic vehicle with the ASI, so exempt from road tax, this Defender really does have a lot to offer. It has been set up for off-road driving and camping, away from the beaten track, and its performance has also been boosted with the installation of overdrive and a variable geometry turbocharger. It also comes with a CB/ VHF radio for hassle-free communication anywhere, a reinforced bumper, a certified roll cage, a complete ORAM set-up and reinforced mechanics - to name but a few of the many modifications.
Over the past ten years, this Defender has received meticulous and documented maintenance, which guarantees that it is solid and reliable, ready for many future adventures. The engine, gearbox and overdrive have been completely overhauled, and have only accumulated 125,000 km since then. Its comprehensive, high-quality equipment and the possibility of configuring the interior as a camper van make it perfect for long journeys and extreme off-road adventures.
History and Documentation
- Defender 110 1997 model with left-hand drive
- Documented maintenance over the last 10 years
- Registered with the Italian Automotoclub Storico Italiano as a historic vehicle, therefore exempt from stamp duty
- We have been informed that it has a valid overhaul
- It is accompanied by all original parts removed
Conditions
- Certified roll cage, anchored in 6 points to the chassis and reinforced with a 4-point internal arch (feature not found in normal roll cages available on the market)
- Interior can be configured differently, with four seats and a marine plywood camper kit that converts to a double bed by lowering the rear seats
- 80-litre water tank, integrated in the rear seat compartment, with a marine pump for use as a shower
- Heat and sound insulation on the roof and front seats to reduce heat from the gearbox
- Radio/ CB/ VHF for communicating anywhere
- Reinforced bumper with internal air tank (supplied but not installed)
- Insulated battery compartment for extra protection and durability
- Bodywork and paintwork look good, with minor imperfections visible in photographs
- We have been assured that the chassis and firewall are in good condition
- Interior trim and controls show very little wear considering the age and mileage of the car
- We have been informed that the electrical services in the passenger compartment work properly
Mechanics
- 300 TDI four-cylinder 2.5-litre engine
- Equipped with variable geometry turbine and intercooler from model 2800 International (+ original turbo/intercooler kit with new avional impeller)
- Five-speed manual gearbox with Land Rover Team overdrive
- Engine, gearbox and overdrive were completely overhauled at 187,000 km - so only 125,000 km have been covered thereafter
- Steering coupling bars, steering shaft protection bar and reinforced suspension, with +5 cm raised stance
- Increased fuel tanks for a total of 160 litres of diesel (+ original tank)
- Upgraded electrical system with separate front and rear fuses
- Dual electrical system with two battery switches to separate engine and services
- Dual OPTIMA batteries (Red Top and Yellow Top)
- Completely overhauled braking system with 4 self-ventilating discs and aero braided hoses
- Height-adjustable, homologated trailer hitch
- Complete ORAM suspension set-up with springs and dampers (including original springs and dampers), with a 5 cm rise
This sale is subject to the Terms and Conditions of Car & Classic. By submitting an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓Theseller is registered as a private seller, which means that consumer rights under EU consumer protection legislation do not apply. You will be protected in any case by the Terms and Conditions of Car & Classic.
✓Ifyou are the lucky winner of an auction or your bid is accepted, we will ask you to pay a non-refundable commission fee. Please refer to our FAQ and Terms & Conditions for specific fees.
✓Thisvehicle is'SoldAs Seen', on an'as is and where is' basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are for illustrative purposes only and it is good practice to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle before purchase for added peace of mind and security.
✓VATis included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final offer or asking price, as specified in the ad.
✓Justlike you, we want transactions to be as straightforward and transparent as possible, which is why we subject all UK vehicles for sale on Car & Classic to an HPI check to ensure that they are not listed in insurance databases as damaged or stolen and that they are free of any financial liens, allowing you to bid with confidence.
✓Wealso check whether vehicles have been declared withdrawn from circulation and compensated as irreparably damaged when an ad is published on Car & Classic, and where necessary we indicate the category of damage reported (Cat C/D/S/N) to help you. However, the presence or absence of such indications is no guarantee of the condition of the vehicle and it is always preferable to carry out a full vehicle history check yourself before submitting an offer.
✓Buyers are responsible for collecting or delivering the vehicle. Additional customs duties and import taxes may apply when importing vehicles, so it is advisable to check beforehand. If required, we can direct you to a third-party shipping company that can help. For more details, or to communicate with our team, please email [email protected].
