1998 LAND ROVER DEFENDER 50TH ANNIVERSARY

This Land Rover Defender 90 is a rare and coveted 50th Anniversary special edition, presented in highly original condition. Under the bonnet is a 4.0-litre naturally aspirated Rover V8 engine producing 188bhp, coupled to a four-speed ZF automatic transmission. The current indicated mileage is 3,702 miles, but the correct total from new is 67,290 miles.

An original right-hand drive example, this is number 192 of the 385 cars built for the UK market. It was supplied via Lex Land Rover in Cheltenham to its first owner in August 1998. Like all genuine 50th Anniversary models, it is finished in smart Atlantis Blue paintwork, and has the factory-fitted partial roll cage, as well as original interior features. There are five previous registered keepers on the log book, and it has been owned by the seller for the last three years.

There is no sign of any accident damage, and the seller believes the paintwork is original. It certainly presents as a factory finish, with only small patches of paint bubbling around the outer panels, commensurate with the age. Some surface rust is visible on the undersides of the doors, and the window rubbers are aged in places. The seller also notes that there are some small scratches and dents above the doors, caused by poorly fitted luggage bars installed by a previous owner. Overall, these imperfections do not detract from what is clearly an impressive, unrestored example.

In general, the Atlantis Blue paint presents well, with the blemishes noted above only really becoming noticeable upon close inspection. There are Land Rover spot lamps mounted on the front grille, and a work light above the rear door. The original chequer-plate metal panels around the body are in very good order, and the car rides on the correct 16-inch pewter grey ‘Freestyle’ alloy wheels.

Inside, the seller states that the trim is in great condition for its age, and that it is virtually unmarked. The seats are upholstered with grey vinyl for the sides and backs, and with durable patterned cloth facings. There is only a small one-inch split in the vinyl backing of the front passenger seat, and another to the top of one rear passenger seat. Some light scuffs and scratches are also present on the rear door card, but the cabin is neat and tidy throughout. Its headlining would benefit from refixing in places, but the dashboard and carpets are in great shape.

The steering wheel and gear selector are trimmed in grey leather, and being a 50th Anniversary model it also features a roll hoop bolted just behind the front seats, complementing the external cage fitted to the front half of the car. There is also factory-fitted air-conditioning, and a pop-up sunroof panel. The stereo has been upgraded to a contemporary Kenwood head unit with CD player, and USB and aux-in connectivity.

There are 16 service stamps in the booklet, with the last independent garage work in April 2020 at a correct 67,286 miles, carried out by Land Rover specialist SSG Automotive. Between 2013 and 2018, it was maintained by the previous owners, with regular fluid and filter changes. In April 2013, the dashboard panel including the odometer was replaced at 63,588 miles, and the car has covered 3,702 miles since then. Bidders should note that the last three MOT tests have been recorded with incorrect mileage figures. The seller believes they should state 2,067 miles in 2017, 2,827 miles in 2019, and 3,684 miles in 2020 - and he has applied to DVSA to request an update to the latter.

Its most recent MOT test was on 20 April 2020, and resulted in a first-time pass with only a few advisories. There was a minor oil leak noted, as well as some seeping from the power steering box, and worn rear shock absorbers. However, these were all subsequently rectified, with both cam cover gaskets, the steering box, and both rear dampers replaced. Overall, the car is in excellent mechanical condition, starting on the first turn, and running very well on the road. The vendor has also said he will have the car freshly serviced, and with a new 12-month MOT certificate, before handing over to the next owner.

The wheels are shod in BFGoodrich All-Terrain tyres in size 265/75 R16 all round, which were fitted in 2013 and still have around 14mm of tread remaining. It is accompanied by the original 50th Anniversary book pack, including the stamped guarantee and maintenance record. Numerous receipts and invoices are also in the history file, and two sets of keys are present.

This Land Rover Defender 50th Anniversary is a coveted version of a world-famous automotive icon. Considered by many to be one of the best-driving Defenders due to its strong and characterful V8 engine, and smooth automatic gearbox, this is a rare modern classic that would be a great candidate for some sympathetic cosmetic rejuvenation. It is unrestored and well preserved, and is undoubtedly a great opportunity for any Land Rover fan or collector.

Summary of service history:

• 26/09/98 - 3,000 miles - Lex Land Rover
• 09/03/99 - 5,893 miles - Lex Land Rover
• 04/08/99 - 11,509 miles - Lex Land Rover
• 27/03/00 - 17,534 miles - Lex Land Rover
• 25/08/00 - 25,343 miles - Lex Land Rover
• 21/12/00 - 29,935 miles - Green Lane Land Rover
• 05/09/01 - 35,459 miles - Green Lane Land Rover
• 04/04/03 - 41,154 miles - Tim Fry Landrovers
• 01/10/04 - 46,970 miles - Tim Fry Landrovers
• 28/09/05 - 49,639 miles - Hereford LandRover
• 29/09/08 - 56,210 miles - GB Motor Services
• 28/09/09 - 58,643 miles - GB Motor Services
• 30/09/10 - 61,118 miles - GB Motor Services
• 22/09/11 - 62,548 miles - GB Motor Services
• 11/09/12 - 63,408 miles - GB Motor Services
• 2013-2018 - Self-serviced by previous owner
• 30/04/20 - 67,286 miles - SSG Automotive

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.