1997 | Land Rover 90 / Defender 90 (Euro Spec)

Notable UK-based restorer Arkonik opened its doors in 2006. Founder Andy Hayes restored the firm's first Defender in his own driveway, and today, the company exists as a thriving operation offering commission-built Land Rover restoration of the highest caliber. Specializing in both ICE and EV powertrains, Arkonik's approach is entirely modern, extraordinarily thorough, and highly acclaimed.  

Finished in Eastnor Green over a Ruskin interior, this 1997 Land Rover Defender 90 arrives in fine form, built to order by Arkonik. The donor vehicle underwent an extensive refurbishment, with the company's no-detail-too-small approach evident in every aspect of the project. First, the truck was fully disassembled, shot-blasted, and fitted with a new rear cross member. The drivetrain components were then extensively rebuilt; the axles were Raptor-coated and re-coupled to the frame, and a brand new suspension system, steering components, fuel system, brakes, bulkhead, A, B, and C pillars, side seals, and rear body tub were fitted. The 300Tdi turbo diesel engine was fully stripped back; each core component was measured, pressure tested, machined back to factory specification, or replaced. The 5-speed manual transmission followed in a similar form, with the entirety of the internal gearing replaced. The body was then repaired, prepped, and refinished. Finally, the truck was reassembled and fitted with a host of modern finishes and an entirely new interior. The end result is a virtually brand new Defender, ready for years of adventures yet to come. 

This example's features and performance equipment make the truck's specification second to none. Outside, a Warn winch is equipped up front, while a NAS rear step and individually folding side steps make access a breeze. The Fox suspension and Wolf wheels confirm the truck's off-road capability, while the Ice White LED lighting kit provides excellent visibility. The cabin features Puma front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, replacement switchgear and gauges, and a custom center console. The truck offered here represents the best of classic Defender style with the convenience and reliability of a brand-new vehicle. This Defender 90 is now offered with a third-party inspection report, an Experian AutoCheck report, and a clean North Carolina title listing the vehicle as a 1996 model year. 

 

This vehicle is eligible for a warranty provided by the selling dealer, please review the full warranty details in the "Extras" image gallery below. 

Originally a Rest Of World-market Land Rover Defender 90, this custom build's origins can be verified by the VIN data below:

S - Europe

A - United Kingdom

L - Land Rover

LD - Defender 

V - 90

A - Pick-up, soft top or hard top

6 - 300Tdi, 2.5, 4 Cylinder, Diesel, with EGR/Cat, 23L

8 - 5 Speed, R380, Manual

V - 1997 model year

A - Solihull, United Kingdom

Complete restoration of this truck was performed in the UK by Arkonik. Featuring a completely rebuilt engine, drivetrain, and suspension, updated body work, and a brand new interior, brakes, and electrical system, no area was left untouched.

The vehicle was imported to the US in 2022 and in now located in Charleston, South Carolina.

This vehicle shows wear consistent with its low mileage and age according to a third-party Inspection Report. Please review the entire document by clicking "Inspection Report" above. Inspector and seller comments include: