1998 Land Rover Defender 50th Anniversary

Owned by the current keeper for just 3 months shy of 20 years, this Land Rover has been mainly used to transport the dogs around for their daily walks. The car has done roughly around 500 miles a year although the odometer needs to be fixed as it isn’t currently working. 

The car has had MOTs at regular intervals throughout the time it’s spent with its owner and comes with a current test valid until 26th October 2024, albeit with a few minors. 

Now up for auction, this could be a perfect purchase for someone who is looking to add their own style and flair to a celebrated anniversary edition. 

The body is in good overall condition, there are some dents and dings and signs of corrosion poking through but just like you don’t expect your wellies to be pristine, this Land Rover has been used for its express purpose and wears the experience with pride. 

The wheels overall look to be in good condition with some lacquer peel starting to show on some of them, but the tyres look to be in good health too with plenty of pattern left on the meaty treads. 

The paintwork shines up well and that Safety Devices front windscreen roll bar gives a hint at the off roading ability of this car. The glass and trim look to be in good condition with just the front plastic headlight surrounds looking like they could benefit from some trim restore treatment to give some depth of shine back to the contrasting black features. 

The interior looks to be in good condition with no signs of any excessive rips, tears, burns or cracks. There is the odd mud mark or discolouration but again you can’t have some good off roading fun and expect to stay clean. 

The rear flip down seats all look to be in good working order too and the headlining looks good too, especially around the sunroof which looks to have been leak-free. As mentioned previously some of the gauges in the dash are currently either sticking or not working and aside from the driver’s side door lock being temperamental, the seller reports no other known faults around the cabin. 

The seller reports that the car drives very nicely and the car was driven to us from London. The 4.0L V8 certainly sounds healthy, and we can imagine is a powerful weapon in the tougher sections of the green lane as well as perfectly civilised around town, with it able to bare its teeth once given a boot full on the loud pedal. 

Opening the bonnet, the V8 looks to be quite understated with no obvious signs of broken components, split wires or pipes or any excessive fluid leaks. The bodywork inside the bay also looks to be in good condition. 

Should you wish to hear the engine, we have our video walkaround and start up attached to the listing where you can hear the unit fire up and build through the revs.

The car comes with two sets of keys, its V5c and a leather-bound wallet emblazoned with the 50th Anniversary logo. Also present is the current MOT certificate and a full HPI check showing the history of the car. 

The 50th Anniversary Edition Defender was the truest form of what Land Rover and their fans wanted the model to be - charming design, capable muscle car type power and plenty of extras as standard. These cars are loved by die-hard enthusiasts and casual users alike, and this example represents a great opportunity to get your foot in the door into Land Rover ownership.

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and this lot is located at the Bonhams|Cars Online HQ. Viewings are strictly by appointment. To make a booking, please use the Contact Seller button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, and read our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.