2014 LAND ROVER DEFENDER 90 'TWISTED'

This 2014 Land Rover Defender 90 has been extensively tuned and customised by world-renowned Defender specialists Twisted. Presented in excellent condition and with a number of unique aesthetic and performance-enhancing modifications, it is a high-end example of the ‘go anywhere’ 4x4.

Under the bonnet is the 2.2-litre DT224 diesel engine, which produces 120bhp in standard form; however, this unit has been treated to Twisted’s performance upgrade and ECU remap, bringing its power up to 170bhp. This is linked to a permanent four-wheel-drive system via a six-speed manual transmission. The odometer shows just 40,279 miles from new.

Ordered from Twisted by the seller in October 2013, this Defender was first registered on 27 January 2014. While the logbook shows that there was one previous keeper, this was Twisted themselves, who purchase standard vehicles directly from Land Rover prior to customising them to the customer’s specifications. Over their six years of ownership, the seller has covered just over 40,000 miles behind the wheel.

During the ordering process, the owner requested for the vehicle to be enhanced with Twisted’s engine performance upgrade and Alcon six-pot front brake callipers, as well as the Twisted Progressive Suspension upgrade, which provides a more comfortable ride without negatively impacting on the Defender’s off-road capabilities.

When it came to aesthetics, Twisted’s own-design gloss black grille and vents were specified, along with black chequer plate cladding to the lower body, LED daytime running light in the front bumper and privacy glass from the B-pillar back – amongst other unique touches. In short, this Defender has been completely transformed, inside and out, with the total bill for Twisted’s parts and labour coming to more than £38,000.

Today, the body still presents excellently, with smooth shut lines and no accident damage whatsoever. The metallic Corris Grey paintwork is also in great shape, and the seller has had the left side and front wing repainted to remove some slight scratches, as well as having the side steps, rear steps, lower chequer plate, front bumper and sump guard refinished. There are some marks to the black roll-over bar that surrounds the windscreen, but they are small and commensurate with the car’s age and mileage.

This Defender 90 rides on a set of Twisted’s own 18-inch five-spoke Sport alloys, which are in very good condition, having been previously refurbished at the owner’s request. The tyres are BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A items in size 265/65 R 18. All four are described by the seller as being in excellent condition, with 10mm of usable tread remaining.

Turning to the interior, the normally drab yet functional Defender cabin has been transformed, with swathes of high-grade black leather with orange stitching covering the entire dashboard, front and rear door cards and window surrounds. Recaro CS sport seats have also been fitted in the front and are finished in the same orange-stitched black leather, accented by Corris Grey painted backs, reflecting the body colour. All of the leather items are in excellent condition and have been carefully maintained by the seller with leather conditioner, keeping them supple and free of cracks or marks.

A black Alcantara headliner is also fitted, as are matching visors, providing a matte contrast to the rest of the leather interior. Enhanced soundproofing has also been fitted throughout the interior for improved comfort. Entertainment is provided by an Alpine double-DIN media system, complete with Hertz speakers. All of the cabin’s switchgear is as new, and the electrics all work perfectly.

Far more than a visual overhaul, Twisted’s work extends to enhancing Defenders’ performance via a series of upgrades. As well as the previously mentioned engine tuning, this car also benefits from Alcon six-pot front brake callipers and the Twisted Progressive Suspension upgrade, creating a more supple yet predictable ride.

Throughout their ownership, the vendor has ensured that this Defender has been serviced every year, in accordance with the manufacturer’s schedule, with the work being carried out by both Land Rover specialists and main dealers. Its last scheduled maintenance was on 7 July 2020 at 40,279 miles, when Land Rover specialists RCV replaced the engine oil, oil filter, sump plug, air filter, fuel filter and brake fluid.

Previous services were carried out by RCV in July 2019 and July 2018, with the same items being replaced, as well as the front and rear differential fluid, transmission fluid and transfer case fluid. Its last MOT test was conducted on 7 July 2020 at 40,279 miles, where it passed first time, with only one advisory note being issued for slight perishing to both rear lower shock bushes.

Accompanying the car are all of its original books and documents, the original order form submitted to Twisted detailing its unique specification, and printouts of its service history and MOT certificates.

This Land Rover Defender 90 Twisted is a superbly well-maintained example of a high-end customised 4x4. Not to be mistaken for the average modified vehicle, it has been extensively tweaked by one of the world’s foremost Defender specialists to offer enhanced performance, both on and off road, while also featuring unique visual touches which set it apart from the crowd. Registered and very recently serviced, this example represents an excellent opportunity for any off-road enthusiast, collector or style-conscious driver with an eye for classic design.

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.

Please note: the cherished plate shown on the car is not included in the sale. It will be switched back to an age-related registration plate in the event of a successful auction.