
- 1997 Land Rover Defender 90 by Dirigo Garage
- 300Tdi 2.5L I4 Turbo Diesel
- Mechanical Fuel Injection
- 5-Speed Manual
- 4x4
- Black Exterior
- Black Interior
- LT230 Permanent 4WD Transfer Case
- Locking Center Differential
- Aftermarket Lift Kit
- Alpine Roof Windows
- Sliding Side Windows
- Aftermarket LED Exterior Lighting
- External Rear-Mounted Spare Tire
- Checker Plate Wing Tops & Door Sills
- Side Steps
- Reupholstered Interior
- Rear Bench Seating
- Aftermarket Wood-Rim Steering Wheel
- Aftermarket Wheels
- Toyo Open Country A/T Plus All-Terrain Tires
- 4-Wheel Disc Brakes
- Replaced Chassis
- Rebuilt Front & Rear Axles
- Replaced Suspension Bushing Kit
- Replaced Shocks & Springs
- Rebuilt Injection Pump
- Extensive Powder Coating
This Land Rover Defender 90 is powered by the legendary 300Tdi 2.5L turbo diesel inline-four, a globally respected engine known for its durability, simplicity, and long service life. Showing over 102,000 miles, this example has benefited from extensive mechanical and structural investment that significantly enhances both longevity and drivability. Highlights include a fully replaced chassis, rebuilt front and rear axles, and a rebuilt mechanical injection pump. Finished in black over a black interior and paired with a 5-speed manual transmission and LT230 permanent 4WD transfer case with a locking center differential, this Defender represents a well-sorted example that blends originality, capability, and meaningful restoration work.
Exterior and Interior
The exterior of this 1997 Land Rover Defender 90 is finished in black and features a purposeful, upgraded appearance that stays true to its utilitarian roots. Highlights include an aftermarket lift kit, Toyo Open Country A/T Plus all-terrain tires mounted on aftermarket wheels, external rear-mounted spare tire, checker plate wing tops and door sills, side steps, and aftermarket LED exterior lighting. Alpine roof windows and sliding side windows enhance visibility and cabin light while preserving the Defender’s iconic silhouette. Extensive powder coating was performed on key components, contributing to both durability and long-term corrosion resistance. The interior of this 1997 Land Rover Defender 90 is finished in black and benefits from a reupholstered cabin that balances ruggedness with comfort. Rear bench seating adds practicality, while an aftermarket wood-rim steering wheel introduces a subtle vintage touch. The layout remains refreshingly analog and functional, emphasizing the Defender’s mechanical character and driver engagement. The result is a cabin that feels authentic, well-sorted, and ready for both daily use and adventure.The black interior of this 1997 Land Rover Defender 90 has been largely retained in stock form, which gives it a very classic aura. Unlike some import Defenders, this one is a leftie so the steering wheel is on the correct side of the car for North American driving. There’s a wood-rimmed steering wheel for a touch of sportiness, but everything else has been kept as standard as possible.
Engine
Mechanically, this Defender 90 has received substantial investment and attention. Power comes from the 300Tdi 2.5L turbocharged diesel engine featuring mechanical fuel injection, paired to a 5-speed manual transmission and a permanent 4WD system via the LT230 transfer case with a locking center differential. Major recent work includes a replaced chassis, rebuilt front and rear axles, new suspension bushing kit, replaced shocks and springs, and a rebuilt injection pump with proper removal, reinstallation, and timing. Four-wheel disc brakes further enhance stopping performance, while extensive powder coating of suspension and drivetrain components improves longevity. This Defender has been mechanically recommissioned in the areas that matter most, making it a standout example for serious buyers.
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