Description
This lot will be auctioned via Iconic Auctioneers, The Iconic Sale at Race Retro 2025 - Collectors' Cars on Saturday the 22nd of February, Stoneleigh Park, Stoneleigh Rd, Coventry, CV8 2LG. Few vehicles have captured the imagination of the world quite like the humble Land Rover. Following 67 years in production, Land Rover bid farewell to the Defender in 2015, marking the occasion with the release of the Heritage Series before ceasing production entirely in January 2016 — a fitting tribute to the original 1948 Series I.
The Heritage Edition came equipped with a host of upgrades including heated seats, Bluetooth connectivity, electric windows and heated front and rear screens. As with most final-edition models, Heritage Edition Defenders command a significant premium over standard examples, with many tucked away in private Collections. Thankfully, the ever growing sub-market for upgraded Land Rovers allows for the creation of exceptional 'Heritage Tribute' vehicles like this one.
Offered here is a stunning Defender 90 Soft Top, restored to an OEM+ standard and presented beautifully in Grasmere Green with a new Sand hood and a luxurious tan interior. Built to be a matching pair with the earlier lot, the Defender 110 N30 HUE, this example has undergone the same meticulous restoration, ensuring it remains true to its original design while incorporating subtle modern enhancements.
The restoration process began with a complete strip-down followed by a thorough shot-blasting of the chassis, which was then welded where necessary and treated with a full Dinitrol underbody rust protection to ensure long-term durability. The bodywork was stripped, repaired where required and professionally refinished in nostalgic Grasmere Green, complementing the car's silver and exposed galvanized elements. Any substandard components were either restored or replaced with high quality upgrades including new wing mirrors, grille, side vents, and air intake. It sits proudly on new Woolf-style wheels wrapped in fresh Renegade tyres.
Inside, the Defender benefits from a complete re-trim, featuring bespoke tan seat covers throughout including the rear bench seats, which have also been fitted with lap belts for added practicality. A brand-new Exmoor Heritage Sand hood completes the iconic look. Mechanically, the legendary 300TDi engine has undergone a full inspection, with all necessary components replaced to ensure reliability and longevity.
Despite its modernised appearance, this 1996 Defender retains its original chassis and engine, making it fully eligible for US importation. As a nod to HUE 166, the very first production Land Rover, this Defender will be offered at auction with the registration, P30 HUE.
With the Defender’s gradual adoption by metropolitan trendsetters, many modified examples stray far from the LR's rugged roots. However, this remarkable Defender 90 stays true to its Land Rover DNA while remaining equally at home navigating city streets or traversing muddy fields. This is a rare opportunity to own a beautifully restored and tastefully upgraded Defender 90 that pays homage to the past whilst being ready for the many adventures that lie ahead.
