When we hear the name Land Rover Defender, what comes to mind is a brute force that leaps its way over every obstacle that comes it's way. With its sturdy, boxy frame and dependable 4x4 capabilities, the Defender is a master of rough terrain. Its history is as rich and diverse as the landscapes it has conquered. From its origins as a military transport vehicle to its current status as a highly sought-after collector's item, the Defender has stood the test of time and proven itself to be a true icon of the automotive world. So for those seeking an SUV that embodies it all, look no further than this 1997 Land Rover Defender 90 equipped with a 300 TDI engine, which was imported from Germany in December 2022. Because of this, it is left-hand-drive, and all customs paperwork and documentation regarding the import are reportedly available.
The current owner has given this classic 1997 Land Rover Defender 90 a whole new lease on life with a range of upgrades. Its spunky blue exterior had its front and rear lights replaced, a new bumper with daytime running lights installed, and a new grill and headlight surrounds fitted, perfectly balancing practicality with style. The new frame provides a sturdy foundation, while the new soft-top and front windshield, complete with a new rubber surround, add more cover. It sits on new wheels and tires, and the rear-mounted wheel carrier, replaced indicator stalk, and headlight switch confirms the owner's commitment to ensuring that this SUV is in tip-top shape. The inviting cabin of this Defender 90 flaunts a beautiful tan interior, which is claimed to be newly upholstered. The new gear knob and wooden steering wheel perfectly complement the vehicle's classic aesthetic. This Defender 90 now boasts extra seats and seat belts in the rear, thanks to its owners' upgrades.
Providing a robust and steady stream of power to this iconic 1997 Land Rover Defender 90 is a 300 TDI 4-cylinder engine. It is coupled with a manual transmission that truly allows the driver to engage with the vehicle. A new cross member on the back of the chassis, replacement of the exhaust, shock absorbers in the rear, and rubbers from the suspension put this Defender in excellent mechanical condition. Further, a new master brake pump offers increased stopping power, while an engine service ensures dependable performance for many miles to come.
Land Rover’s Defender is one of those all-time greats in off-roading nameplates. Derived from 1948’s Land Rover Series I, the Defender name came around 1990, and by then, it had evolved massively from the Series, despite a very similar exterior outlook. Furthermore, while the 110 is the most common type to find these days, there’s a certain sort of charm about the short wheelbase, two-door 90. This 1990 Land Rover Defender 90 definitely portrays that charm, with its extensive do-over that includes a repaint to factory spec and an aftermarket exhaust. The vehicle is currently up for sale in Florida having driven over 152,000 miles, but that’s nothing for a well-maintained Defender like this one. We’re told that the vehicle packs a replaced engine with just 3,500 miles on it, and that engine was refreshed before being swapped in. A recent alignment and tire balancing has also reportedly been carried out on this relatively modern classic four-by-four.
Despite not being officially offered in the US for more than a few years, there are plenty of Defender fans. And now that they can be imported, there a fair few more Land Rover Defenders finding their homes in the states. Take our featured 1998 Land Rover Defender 90 Heritage Edition. It's reportedly undergone an extensive frame-off restoration. It also features extensive mechanical and aesthetic upgrades throughout. Powered by a rebuilt 2.5-liter 300Tdi turbo diesel engine mated to a 5-speed manual transmission, it blends authenticity with enhanced performance and modern refinement.
The Land Rover Defender is one of the best kept secrets - because despite not being popular in the US (only a handful of brand new imports were made) this offroader is now making waves in the American market thanks to the 25-year rule. This 1990 example, offered from Watertown, Connecticut, is powered by the sought-after 200Tdi 2.5-liter turbo diesel engine paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. Showing 70,838 miles, it has been enhanced with custom interior touches and modern conveniences.
The 2019 Range Rover Sport HSE MHEV represents a refined balance of performance and modern luxury. Finished in Santorini Black Metallic over an espresso and ivory Windsor leather interior, it combines timeless elegance with understated athleticism. This model features Land Rover’s 3.0-liter mild hybrid turbocharged inline-six engine, delivering 395 horsepower through an 8-speed automatic transmission. It’s a well-equipped example, designed for those who appreciate both craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology, while maintaining the brand’s hallmark off-road competence and quiet confidence on the road.
This 1986 Land Rover Defender 110 blends the rugged charm of a classic British off-roader with the heart of American muscle. Originally powered by a 3.5L Rover V8, this example has been upgraded to a naturally aspirated Ford 5.0L EFI (302ci) V8 engine, significantly improving reliability and highway drivability while maintaining legendary Defender toughness. Finished in Alpine White with purposeful black accents, it presents as both a capable overland machine and a statement of timeless design.
The Land Rover Defender is probably one of a handful of proper four-by-fours. Forget low profile tires, myriad digital screens and electronics that will throw a fit if a little bit of mud gets splashed on them; the Defender can keep moving even if its caked in mud and tossed around in dirt. Building on the fantastic Series 1 of 1948, the Defender name came about in late 1990, and since then, has been revered by those who want no-nonsense off-road abilities. Of course, vehicles like this 1989 Land Rover Defender 110 from Waxhaw, North Carolina do have some nice features such as Exmoor high-back diamond-stitched leather seats and an aftermarket V8, but this one also enjoys a 4-inch lift kit and Fox Racing shocks, on top of many other things. If you’d like to make this vehicle yours, talk to us right now.
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