1997 LAND ROVER DEFENDER 110 HARDTOP

This Land Rover Defender 110 Hardtop is a sound example of a utility focused icon, benefitting from a brand-new galvanised chassis as well as numerous mechanical upgrades. Under the bonnet is the renowned 2.5-litre 300Tdi engine, coupled to a five-speed manual transmission that drives all four wheels. The odometer shows 39,541 miles, which is the mileage since restoration work in 2017.

An original UK market car, this Defender 110 was first registered in February 1997. There are now five previous registered keepers on the log book. Over the last few years, the car has been subject to significant refurbishment.

Today, the bodywork presents in sound condition, with flush shut lines and no signs of accident damage. The main rust issues with a Defender are on the ladder frame, and this car is all clear in that respect thanks to the new galvanised chassis fitted just three years ago. Its Arles Blue paint is generally in good order, though does have some blemishes, including some corrosion visible around the offside bulkhead, under the rear door, around the rivets of the rear door locking panel, and on the windscreen hinge blocks.

Overall, this Defender presents as a solid utility vehicle with a slightly weathered appearance. The exterior has been subtly modified with chequer plate protection on the bonnet and front wings, KBX Hi-Force air vents, an LED front bumper, and J.W. Speaker headlights. It rides on 16-inch ‘Boost’ alloy wheels, which present well, and there is a full-size steel spare mounted at the rear.

Inside, the hard-wearing grey vinyl is in superb condition, with no rips or tears, and minimal wear. The driver’s seat base has been upgraded to a more supportive squab, but the original base is included in the sale. There is an occasional third seat in the main cab, while a cloth-trimmed jump seat is fitted in the rear.

This Defender has been used as a daily driver for the last three years, and the condition of the interior reflects that. It has a three-spoke Momo Quark steering wheel fitted, but is otherwise highly original. The spacious rear load area has Dynaliner insulation under the roof, and lends itself to all manner of jobs. It could be a great candidate to convert to an off-road camper or expedition vehicle.

As it has been put into daily service since the 2017 refurbishment, the private owner took care to ensure it was rigorously maintained, with the seller estimating that it has been seen around every quarter during that period. There are invoices totalling around £20,000 for servicing, improvements and modifications since the 2017 restoration.

Its last scheduled maintenance was in July 2020 at Land Rover specialist A&B LR in York. It was also seen by the same garage in February 2020 for a major service, when it was fitted with a new VVT turbocharger from Turbo Technics, new crankcase breather, replacement exhaust and inlet manifold gaskets, and exhaust manifold pipes.

In August 2019, it was seen by Auto Refinishers in York, when it was given a 12,000-mile full service, new front brake discs and pads, a replacement engine stop solenoid, and a new viscous fan. The cam belt was last replaced in January 2019 during a major service by LR Motors in Thirsk – part of the Twisted Automotive group – when the Dynaliner insulation was also installed, and the exhaust system was overhauled. Other upgrades installed since the 2017 engine rebuild include an AlliSport radiator and aluminium header tank.

The last MOT test was on 15 July 2020 at 39,527 miles post-restoration, when it achieved a first-time pass with only one advisory regarding slight seepage from the steering box. The General Grabber tyres are in good order, with at least 5mm of tread all round.

Accompanying the car are all servicing and maintenance records dating back to 2017, as well as documentation covering the extensive refurbishment carried out by Simmonites in West Yorkshire. A tool kit is also present.

This Land Rover Defender 110 Hardtop is an eminently usable example of an automotive icon, which boasts daily driver reliability thanks to the extensive refurbishment and upgrades carried out over the last three years. It has been fastidiously maintained during this period, and as such it makes a great utility vehicle that is ready to continue in daily service. However, this is also a very good candidate for further customisation, so the next owner can put their own stamp on it.

All cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.

Car Overview

  • 154,241 miles
  • manual
  • RHD
  • Arles Blue
  • Grey
  • 2.5L


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Lot Overview

  • Lot #01006
  • private Sale
  • York, United Kingdom

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