Highlights

Ex-Ministry of Defence
Only two owners from new
74,647 miles
No known mechanical modifications

The Appeal

Introduced in 1983, and officially designated the Defender name in 1990, the Land Rover Defender began a new chapter in the generation of the Land Rover name. These bulky, rugged off-roaders have become nearly ubiquitous on British country roads, while steadily ascending into the world of upmarket, rural-recreational market.

This example, registered following auction from the Ministry of Defence in 2015, is a suitably rugged, imposing-looking motor with a delightful working patina - coupled up with a fine, black quilted leather interior.

Used as a family car - and fondly named 'Darren' - it has served as the current owner's daily driver and is customized to their liking. It retains traditional styling with subtle modern exterior updates, while keeping the bulk of the vehicle - particularly the engine - unmodified. The interior has been revamped by removing the rear tumble-down seats and installing a Bucket Seat conversion system, offering rear passengers an elevated view of their surroundings.

Accompanying the family on surfing trips to France and camping excursions across the UK, this Defender has been kept off off-road terrains under its current ownership. During its time at the MOD, it was reportedly used for transporting officers around the base, and its relatively easy 74,000 miles are evident in the vehicle's underside. This striking car feels at home on both country lanes and highways and does not exhibit the typical signs of wear and tear expected for a working car of its age.

The History and Paperwork

Originally manufactured for the Ministry of Defence, where it worked from 2008 to 2015
First registered as a civilian vehicle in 2017 by the first owner
Purchased by a second owner in 2017
In current ownership since 2019
MOD disposal at 26,513 miles
The odometer now displays 74,647 miles
Valid MOT until February 2024 with some advisories
Paperwork file includes:
- V5 document
- Numerous invoices
- MOD paperwork
- Previous MOT certificates

The Interior

Retrimmed in 2019 with new seats and black premium carpets from Lucari Solutions
Front and Rear Bucket Seats Corbeua leather seats, custom trimmed in quilted black leather with minimal signs of wear
Black dashboard with double din inset infotainment screen and original instruments
Rear Camera
Blam Audio Speakers & Tweeters with Sub woofer & AMP Hidden under rear seats
Front and Rear Cubby Boxes in matching leather Trim
We’ve been informed of no technical faults across the board
A small crack is visible in the gearstick knob
Aluminium Billet Screws & Bolts
Attractive Nardi Torino, suede-trimmed, branded steering wheel
Sound dampening fitted to floor areas throughout
Carpets and headlining in excellent order with only light signs of wear
Rear bed is in good order with benches in good condition and carpets displaying well

The Exterior

Unmistakable lines and rugged build quality
Distinctive Kewisk Green Grey paintwork
Fitted in 2019:
- Zunsport wing tops and side vents, a new grille and light surrounds
- Halogen Headlamps & Led Indicators
- NAS Style Side Steps
- NAS-style Rear Bumper
- OEM Mudflaps front and rear
All lines and panels appear to be straight and well presented
Some spots of corrosion, bubbling and paint loss in line with the vehicle’s working nature
Some corrosion to the bumpers
Black trims in fair order throughout
Glasswork and lenses present well with no faults we can spot
Car is sitting on its original wheels which show some paint loss and wear
Full set of Cooper Discovery tyres including full-size Rear door-mounted Spare
Aluminium Billet Bolts fitted to door hinges including bonnet.

The Mechanics

Powered by the 2.4-litre Ford Duratorq Turbodiesel I4 engine
5-speed LT77 manual transmission
Engine bay presents well as a working example
In 2021 the car was fitted with:
- New callipers, brake pads and discs
- New clutch master cylinder
- New concentric slave cylinder
In February 2023 the car was fitted with a new turbo and has just been serviced
- The invoice for the recent service & turbo install wasn’t available but can be provided
No reports of any mechanical faults, however, the latest MOT highlighted:
- Slight play to the offside rear wheel bearing
- Corrosion to the rear springs
- Corrosion to the front springs
- Corrosion/grease to the central brake pipes
- A minor oil leak
However, it appears to be a solid, nicely kept example of a working Land Rover

Summary

With its distinctive paintwork, stylish interior and interesting MOD heritage, this is a great opportunity for anybody craving the thrill of best-of-British, off-road motoring.

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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