Winning bid
£14,250

1998 Land Rover Defender V8 50th

Vendor supplied images

Highlights 

  • V8 torque and a very rare automatic gearbox supplied only with this edition 
  • No.239 of 1,071 made of which only 385 stayed in the UK 
  • Atlantis Blue paintwork and external roll cage 

The Appeal 

The Land Rover Defender 50th Anniversary Edition holds a special appeal for enthusiasts and collectors alike. Firstly, its iconic design pays homage to the original Land Rover Defender, which has become a symbol of ruggedness and adventure. The 50th Anniversary Edition features unique touches like a Atlantis Blue exterior paint finish, contrasting chrome front bumper and heritage-style 50th badging, all of which enhance its classic and timeless appeal. 
Additionally, the Land Rover Defender 50th Anniversary Edition offers enhanced performance and capabilities. With its powerful 184bhp engine, automatic transmission and advanced off-road capabilities, it can conquer challenging terrains with ease. Whether it's navigating through muddy trails, crossing rivers, or climbing steep hills, the Defender 50th Anniversary Edition is built to handle it all. Its robust build quality and durable components make it a reliable companion for outdoor enthusiasts who seek thrilling adventures off the beaten path.
The 50th anniversary edition was exceptionally special, coming from the factory with a super collection of fitted accessories that weren’t seen on other examples. The automatic gearbox was a nice addition allowing easier driving (yes we are all aware how heavy Defender clutches can be!) and of course seamless off road ability. Also the addition of an internal roll hoop, leather trimmed steering wheel and air conditioning were all standard, making this more Range Rover than Land Rover!
IMG_4330.JPG 2.35 MB

The History and Paperwork

  • V5c showing two previous keepers and previously registered in England 
  • The original owner kept the car for just a year before being purchased by the second and being owned by themselves since 
  • Original handbooks and wallet are included 
  • A handful of documentation that backs up ownership history and purchasing through official dealers 
  • Some receipts and paperwork that back up some maintenance 
  • The service schedule contains some service stamps 

The Interior 

  • Interior roll hoop with original padded protectors 
  • Four folding rear seats 
  • Air conditioning and manually operated sunroof 
  • Totally unmodified and original throughout with significant wear and evidence of use, commensurate with the mileage 
  • The front seats are in reasonable order with just the driver's seat base showing the most wear and the rear folding seats showing significantly less 
  • The original radio still remains 
  • Polished aluminium low range shifter and window winders 
  • Leather wrapped steering wheel 
  • Limited edition plaque stating No239 
  • There is various cracks and small areas of damage to some of the interior plastics though these are all easily replaced parts 
  • All the dials, including the very unusual rev counter are clean and clear though the odometer is inoperative 

The Exterior 

  • Atlantis blue, specific to this model that has endured the elements and years with lots of marks and corrosion spots but no evidence of severe historic damage showing straight panels and good even panel gaps 
  • Exo-cage around the front cabin painted black and has evidently been fitted for some time 
  • Nice paintwork on the original wheels presents well 
  • All the original checker plate is still fitted and in fine condition 
  • The original glass appears to be still fitted all round 
  • The front grille, headlights, fog lights and protectors are all in good order 
  • Chrome front bumper along with chrome and checker plate steps 
  • Original spare wheel and dealer cover
  • Rear bumper bar guard with tow hitch 
  • All rear lighting units appear to be in good order as well as the 50th anniversary badge 

The Mechanics 

  • Reported to run and drive well and has a short MOT test 
  • Sound underside that has seen some welding work but is by no means beyond repair Good set of A/T tyres mounted on nice clean original wheels 
  • Very widely used 4.0 V8 punching out just under 190bhp along with a CVT automatic transmission and low range gearing 
  • The drivers floor has got some corrosion and would benefit from attention 
  • The underbonnet appearance is tidy all things considered with no modifications evident or evidence of damaged components 
  • This vehicle should be viewed as a project and will likely need significant work 

Summary 

While in need of significant restoration to bring this vehicle back to its former glory, the 50th anniversary Defender is a truly iconic example of the marque with some examples selling for large sums. 
This is a solid basis for a very fun and rewarding project for enthusiasts of the Defender range, still benefiting from all the original parts and accessories it was provided with.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*

UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
Icon

Selling your Land Rover?


Advertise to 4 million monthly visitors on Car & Classic

Sell by Auction

Auction Details

  • Year1998
  • MakeLand Rover
  • ModelDefender
  • ColourAtlantis Blue
  • Odometer230,000 Miles
  • Engine size3950cc
  • Seller TypePrivate
  • TownCo Antrim
  • CountyNorthern Ireland
  • CountryUnited Kingdom
  • Auction ends

Bidding history

13 Bids from 3 bidders

stuart@••••
Bid
£14,250
04/09/23
Cliffy6••••
Bid
£14,000
04/09/23
stuart@••••
Bid
£11,250
04/09/23
Cliffy6••••
Bid
£11,000
04/09/23
stuart@••••
Bid
£10,750
04/09/23
Cliffy6••••
Bid
£10,500
04/09/23
stuart@••••
Bid
£10,250
03/09/23
Cliffy6••••
Bid
£10,000
03/09/23
stuart@••••
Bid
£9,300
03/09/23
Cliffy6••••
Bid
£9,000
03/09/23

Buying with Car & Classic

animation

How bidding works

All you need to know about the bidding process on Car & Classic

animation

Five steps to buying safely

We make it safe and simple to secure your dream classic

animation

Shipping & transport

Useful information on collecting your new vehicle

animation

Secure payments

How we protect you and your money, to make Car & Classic the safest place to transact

More FAQs

Gallery