No matter the angle, this 1994 Land Rover Defender 90 looks like it means business. From the bull bar to the tow hitch, and from the side steps to the fender flares, it is a classic off-roader with a touch of attitude. It only arrived on American soil earlier this year, and it is already looking for a new home. Located in Sarasota, Florida, you will find the Defender listed for sale here on eBay. Bidding has reached $15,300, but this figure is still below the reserve. There is a BIN option, and the owner has set this at $42,000.
The Defender is finished in Coniston Green with a White top, and its overall presentation is pretty impressive. The owner indicates that the vehicle has received a repaint, but it isn’t clear when this occurred. The paint shines impressively, while the panels are remarkably straight for a Land Rover of this vintage. Rust is not an issue with this classic. The listing indicates that the frame is structurally sound, and there are no issues visible in the supplied photos. The enormous bull bar looks capable of subduing all but the largest examples of our wildlife, while the inclusion of spotlights and a 12,000lb winch add to its versatility. From a practical perspective, the folding side and rear steps are a great addition, while the snorkel should allow the vehicle to ford every stream. The Land Rover is also fitted with fender flares, so if the buyer wants to fit larger wheels and tires to improve the vehicle’s off-road abilities, that shouldn’t present any problems.
I would love to be able to say that the Defender’s new paint is flawless, but it isn’t. The owner points out this bubbling on the door and is quick to emphasize that this is not due to rust problems. I have to admit that it has me scratching my head a bit because it does look odd. All I can think is that the surface preparation may not have been perfect and that the fresh paint was applied over a contaminant like polish in this spot. Fixing it shouldn’t be difficult, and if there really isn’t any rust, it also shouldn’t break the bank.
The 1994 model year was a significant one for the Defender because it marked the introduction of the 300 Tdi engine into the range. That is what we find occupying this engine bay, while the Land Rover also features a 5-speed manual transmission, a dual-range transfer case, power steering, and power brakes. While this diesel motor shared an identical displacement with its predecessor, it was an all-new design that brought some minor increases in power and torque, as well as improvements in refinement. This one is in good health, with the owner stating that it starts easily and runs well. He supplies this YouTube video of the vehicle running and driving, and I can’t spot any problems or issues. The listing indicates that the Defender has a genuine 41,900 miles on the clock, although it isn’t clear whether the seller holds evidence to verify this.
One aspect of vehicles like this Land Rover that can show deterioration is the interior. A life spent bashing their way off the beaten track or plodding across muddy fields can see dirt, mud, and other unpleasant substances get ground into seat upholstery and mats. It doesn’t take long before interiors start to look tired, but that isn’t the case here. The upholstery on the four bucket seats looks impressively clean and free from wear, while the same is true of the floors and dash. The buyer shouldn’t need to spend a dime inside the vehicle, and wherever they go, they will be traveling in the lap of luxury. The Defender comes equipped with air conditioning, checker-plate flooring in the back, a genuine Land Rover CD player, and a CB radio.
This 1994 Land Rover Defender is a tidy and clean classic that has no immediate needs. With the few flaws in the paint addressed, it would offer an eye-catching alternative to a Jeep or a Land Cruiser. I’m pretty surprised that the bidding hasn’t been more spirited, but there is still plenty of time left on the listing. Given its overall condition and equipment level, I would expect that the reserve has probably been set at around $35,000. It could potentially be a bit higher, but I would be surprised if it were substantially more. Are you considering the idea of tackling a trip into the wilderness in the near future? If so, would you consider taking that journey in this Land Rover?
This has always been my favourite look for the LR Defender. I don’t know why they (Land Rover) decided to update the look of the Defender. The current version looks hideous by comparison.
We had two of these in my younger years. My parents had a 1964 and a 1965. They were a much more crude vehicle back in them days, very Spartan yo say the least. I like the looks of this body style much better too. I personally think they are over priced for what you get and there is way to much hype on the toughness of these vehicles. They are no tougher than a Jeep Rubicon and maybe not as durable not to mention the cost of parts and ownership in this country for exceeds that of the American counter parts.
I will give it that they do have the ruff and tough looks for sure and are kind of cool in their own way. Personally I would rather have the 110 over the 90 with a reinforced or replaced custom frame and an all American driveline starting with an LS power plant. I know you LR lovers are hating me about now.
I’m not up on the newer LR’s body but our older units had an aluminum body and the steel was galvanized with aluminum bumpers. So if this still hold true the paint issue could still be a corrosion issue or possibly just bad paint. It does need immediate attention before it causes more damage.
I would guess possibly the owner found it to not be the vehicle he hoped for and figured he would get out from under it with a profit. Got done reason these typically bring a high price when sold.
And with a CB radio!!