This 1996 Land Rover Defender 110 is a UK-market example powered by the highly regarded 300Tdi turbo-diesel paired with the durable R380 5-speed manual transmission. Imported to the United States in 2024, it benefits from extensive documented refurbishment, rust repairs, and mechanical work completed prior to export by respected Land Rover specialists. Finished in Montpelier Red with a Santorini Black roof, bonnet, and fender arches, this Defender combines classic utility with tasteful cosmetic upgrades while retaining the character that has made the 300Tdi-powered Defender one of the most sought-after variants among enthusiasts. Offered by Wolf and Mare in Richmond, Virginia, this Defender is accompanied by a clean Virginia title, extensive service records, multiple keys, and immobilizer fobs.
- Properly Prepared Before Import: Unlike many imported Defenders that arrive requiring immediate attention, this example received substantial investment before leaving the UK. Purchased from respected Land Rover specialist Nene Overland in 2024, it subsequently underwent rust repairs, body restoration, and mechanical work by Rivolve Motorworks prior to export. According to the current owner, it has proven to be a reliable occasional driver since arriving in the United States. A new clutch was also installed after import. The seller notes a minor oil leak near the rear of the engine, while the heater is currently inoperative.
- Legendary 300Tdi Powertrain: For many enthusiasts, the 300Tdi represents the sweet spot of Defender ownership. Its mechanically injected 2.5-liter turbo-diesel is renowned for durability, ease of maintenance, and excellent fuel economy compared to gasoline-powered alternatives. Producing 111 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, it prioritizes usable low-end torque over outright speed, making it equally comfortable on forest roads, overland routes, or relaxed highway drives. Power is routed through the desirable R380 5-speed manual transmission and Land Rover's proven dual-range four-wheel-drive system.
- Restored Exterior with Functional Upgrades: Finished in Montpelier Red contrasted by Santorini Black accents, this Defender presents with a more purposeful appearance than factory specification without straying from its classic design. Exterior equipment includes LED lighting, a black grille, diamond-plate sill protectors, folding side steps, mud flaps, and a swing-away rear tire carrier. Sawtooth alloy wheels wear Bridgestone Dueler All-Terrain tires manufactured in 2019 with good remaining tread, providing a practical combination of road manners and off-road capability.
- Functional Interior: Inside, the gray cabin has been upgraded with partial leather seating, a Momo steering wheel, Exmoor Trim carpeting protected by rubber floor mats, a center cubby with integrated cupholders, and a Kenwood Bluetooth stereo. Like many classic Defenders, simplicity remains part of the appeal. While factory air conditioning is not fitted and the heater is currently inoperative, the traditional cowl vents and sliding side windows provide natural ventilation. Rear jump seats expand total seating capacity to as many as 11 occupants when needed.
Why It Stands Out
Many imported Defenders arrive with unknown histories or deferred maintenance, but this example offers unusually comprehensive documentation tracing its life in England and Northern Ireland before its U.S. importation. Its documented refurbishment, rust repairs, recent clutch replacement, desirable 300Tdi diesel, and extensive service history make it a compelling option for buyers seeking a Defender that's already been thoughtfully sorted rather than one requiring an immediate restoration. The combination of mechanical simplicity, classic styling, and practical upgrades also makes it equally suitable as a weekend adventure vehicle, family cruiser, or collectible classic that can still be driven and enjoyed regularly.
Powertrain
- 2.5L 300Tdi turbo-diesel inline-four
- R380 5-speed manual transmission
- Dual-range four-wheel drive
- New clutch installed following U.S. import
- Seller reports minor rear engine oil leak
Exterior
- Montpelier Red exterior
- Santorini Black roof, bonnet, and fender arches
- LED exterior lighting
- Black grille
- Diamond-plate sill guards
- Folding side steps
- Swing-away rear tire carrier
- Mud flaps
- Sawtooth alloy wheels
- Bridgestone Dueler All-Terrain tires (2019 date codes)
Interior
- Right-hand drive configuration
- Gray partial leather upholstery
- Momo steering wheel
- Exmoor Trim carpets with rubber floor mats
- Center cubby with integrated cupholders
- Kenwood Bluetooth stereo
- Rear jump seats with seating for up to 11
- Heater currently inoperative
- No factory air conditioning
Documentation & Ownership
- Originally delivered in the United Kingdom
- Imported to the United States in 2024
- Purchased from Nene Overland
- Pre-export restoration and rust repairs by Rivolve Motorworks
- Extensive maintenance and service records included
- Multiple keys and immobilizer fobs
- Clean Virginia title
Whether you're searching for your first classic Defender or looking to add a well-documented 300Tdi to your collection, this thoughtfully prepared 110 from Wolf and Mare offers the mechanical simplicity, timeless styling, and everyday usability that continue to make these diesel Defenders some of the most desirable imports on the market.