Description
Land Rover Defender | 1997
Highlights
- 4.6L 8-cylinder petrol engine with a manual transmission
- Rover V8 swap with tophat sleeves and Bosch injectors, 20.000 km ago
- Galvanised chassis and long-range fuel tank
- TerraFirma suspension and reconditioned front differential
- LED lighting and reupholstered seats
The seller offers for sale this 1997 Land Rover Defender, a mechanically enhanced version fitted with a 4.6-litre Rover V8 engine. The engine swap was completed, featuring tophat sleeves, Bosch multipoint injectors, a Little Black Box management system, a new clutch kit and radiator. The front differential has been reconditioned, and the vehicle benefits from a TerraFirma suspension setup with polyurethane bushes, as well as new hubs, discs and calipers. The galvanised chassis and long-range fuel tank increase durability and off-road practicality. The paint shows cracking near the rear spare wheel mount and the front left door handle, consistent with use. The exterior has some minor dents caused by farm use. The cabin remains functional, with Bluetooth radio and working gauges, though minor details like the driver’s door lock and speaker meshes need attention. The vehicle starts reliably, runs strong, and despite occasional smoke when warm, it drives smoothly with no unusual noises.
The Land Rover Defender is a motoring icon, celebrated for its rugged construction and unmatched off-road ability. Built to endure the toughest conditions, it has earned a global reputation among adventurers and collectors alike. This particular example, with its uprated Rover V8 engine and strengthened underpinnings, offers both enhanced power and authentic utility. Its blend of mechanical upgrades, timeless design and practicality make it ideal for those seeking a classic 4×4 capable of both leisure and expedition use.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
3. Good: Repairs to the bodywork and paint may be needed, possibly requiring part replacements.
Condition of the Interior
3. Good: Shows typical wear; may require some repairs or part replacements.
Technical Condition
3. Good: Generally reliable, but may need some maintenance or repairs.
Overall Condition
3. Good Condition: May need some mechanical and cosmetic repairs, but can drive.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Gauteng province, South Africa.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a South African RC1 registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
