This beautiful year 2000 Land Rover Defender 90 is offered by Sonoran Rovers in Tucson, Arizona. Finished in elegant Mediterranean Blue with a clean black interior and hand-finished Iroko wood rear deck, this right-hand-drive, six-seat Defender features the rare 2.8L BMW inline-six engine, factory air conditioning, and a long-range fuel tank. Originally imported into the UK from South Africa by a private collector and enthusiast, it was personally sourced by Marcus and Blaine of Sonoran Rovers for its originality, condition, and rare configuration.
Rare BMW Powertrain
Under the hood lies the 2.8-liter BMW M52 inline-six, a limited-production engine fitted to late-model South African Defenders and now highly sought after among enthusiasts. Producing around 190 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque, the M52 delivers smooth, effortless acceleration while maintaining Land Rover’s trademark durability. These trucks are exceptionally rare and collectible, combining classic Defender looks with modern drivability and refined on-road performance.
Exterior
Finished in Mediterranean Blue, this Defender presents beautifully with clean panels and tidy lines. It’s equipped with a long-range fuel tank, factory alloys, and all-terrain tires, making it equally ready for adventure or display. The overall presentation is sharp and honest — true to the Sonoran Rovers standard.
Interior
The six-seat cabin remains functional and inviting, highlighted by the Iroko hardwood rear deck that adds warmth and character. All switchgear, gauges, and the factory air conditioning operate as intended. It’s clean, solid, and ready to serve as both daily driver and expedition companion.
Mechanical & Condition
Showing 312,000 kilometers (~194,000 miles) with service history from South Africa, this Defender has been carefully maintained and inspected prior to import. Upon arrival in Arizona, it will undergo the Sonoran Rovers 500-mile shakedown test — a hallmark of the company’s commitment to delivering reliable, road-proven vehicles. It will be sold fully sorted, rust-free, and ready for registration and use anywhere in the U.S.
Provenance
Originally imported into the UK by a knowledgeable enthusiast, this Defender was hand-selected by Marcus and Blaine of Sonoran Rovers for inclusion in their Certified Pre-Inventory program. Every Sonoran Rovers vehicle is chosen for quality, authenticity, and mechanical integrity — vehicles they would personally drive across the continent.
Summary
The 2000 Land Rover Defender 90 2.8 BMW represents one of the rarest and most collectible short-wheelbase configurations ever produced. With its BMW-sourced inline-six power, Mediterranean Blue finish, six-seat layout, factory A/C, long-range tank, and Iroko wood deck, it’s a blend of craftsmanship, capability, and character. Currently en route to Tucson, it will be delivered fully tested and certified by Sonoran Rovers — an opportunity to own a true driver’s Defender that’s as unique as it is usable.