A recently relocated real estate developer moved into the area and brought with him a collection of Land Rover Defenders (ok, two), both with Diesel and 5-Speed Transmissions. With the move to Southern Oregon he has become involved with a project in the Merlin area and is selling things to raise capital which includes his Defenders. As with some collectors who buy things by raising a paddle instead becoming experts in their chosen field of interest, our consigner was unable to give me any mechanical or cosmetic history on the SUV except that he has owned it for several years. He did mention he paid a lot of money at the time of his purchase.

The purpose of this long winded introduction is too explain what I know and don’t know about the condition and any work done during our consigners time of ownership. Little is known except from observing while driving the truck and looking at it on the hoist.

Looking at the images, the Defender seems in good, used order. Underneath the springs and shocks look newer and add a possible short lift to the suspension. There are no serious fluid leaks and only minor surface corrosion to the frame and under carriage. The outside of the bell housing and engine oil pan appear to be oil free and have been recently painted and installed. Looking down from inside the engine compartment, the block has fresh paint on as does the Cylinder Head. I am not attempting to draw a conclusion, just seeing what appears to be different components that may have been recently taken apart and reassembled. Tires look to be in very good order and when driving the brakes work well.

Starting the Defender Diesel took a little learning on my part. The key is turned on and then moved until the Glow Plug light comes on. I waited about 20 seconds before cranking the engine and it fired instantly. Not being familiar with a RHD manual transmission, finding 1st took a little practice. In fact, driving a RHD vehicle smoothly will take some time and miles for someone not use to it. Once you do, it is smooth sailing. The engine pulls well which was a surprise, I thought it would be much more lazy. Brakes were good, clutch worked well and the steering was good for a Jeep type SUV. The body and interior are what I would have thought normal for 97,000 miles, not new but not in good order. Between the seats is a Jockey Box that is loose. No charge for it, it comes with the truck. The back seats are trick and fold down from the sides. Entry is obviously from the back.

There is not much more to add, if you have questions that I can answer I will be glad to help out. One of the questions I am sure that will be asked is, “Can I drive it back to Florida?” (for instance). I do not see a reason not too, but it is 30 years old and English. That should be an educated guess. The driver's side door has a worn top hinge that makes latching it a bit of a pain. You need to lift up on the door as you close to line things up before shutting it. A new hinge will sort that out.

Miles showing are 97,822 and the selling price is $28,995. The unbranded, clear title was issued out of North Carolina. The VIN# is SALLDVAB7FA421839. For other interesting bikes and collectable vehicles, visit our web site http://www.automaniagp.com 541 479 8888 or come by and see us at 895 SE Gladiola Drive, Grants Pass, Oregon, 97526. Oregon Dealer DA1287.

Automania LLC is a Consignment Oregon Dealer selling quality, privately owned vehicles including Aprilia, Buell, BMW, Citroen, Chrysler, Dodge, Ducati, Harley Davidson, Honda, Hummer, Kawasaki, Moto Guzzi, MV Agusta, Nissan, Ossa, Piaggio, Suzuki, Triumph, Vespa, Yamaha, Classic Hot Rods, Buick, Dodge, Ford, Chevrolet, International, Jeep, Land Rover, C10, Apache, Trailer, RV, Lamborghini, MG, Mustang, Packard, Porsche, Roush, Rover, Shelby, Toyota, Triumph, Volkswagen and any other vehicle and motorcycle of interest