1996 Land Rover Defender 90 - Automatic Conversion

KEY FACTS

• A highly capable and reportedly extensively refurbished modern classic Land Rover Defender 90, upgraded with a professionally installed automatic transmission conversion.
• It is powered by a 2.5-litre turbocharged diesel inline-four, driving all four wheels through a three-speed automatic transmission.
• First registered in December 1996, this example was only recently acquired by the seller.
• The seller states that it benefited from a significant refurbishment carried out during 2019/20 by renowned Land Rover specialist Simmonites of Bradford, including an engine rebuild, a galvanised bulkhead, an automatic transmission conversion, a full repaint, an interior refurbishment, and suspension work.
• The odometer indicates 2,501 miles since completion of the refurbishment in 2019/20. Before the restoration work, the vehicle had reportedly covered an indicated 50,496 miles, which the seller believes to be the genuine total.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• This Defender has been professionally converted from its original manual gearbox to a three-speed automatic transmission.
• This example is finished in an appealing shade of green, over a black part leather and grey cloth-trimmed interior.
• It rides on a set of 16-inch ‘Sawtooth’ alloy wheels fitted with Goodyear Wrangler MT/R tyres.
• Equipment includes a heated rear screen, a high and low range gearbox, electric front windows, heated front seats, and fold-down inward-facing rear seats.
• This example has been fitted with Heritage-style front and rear Land Rover badges, side steps, a NAS-style rear step, KBX Hi-Force front wing vents, and a Sony CD stereo.
• The sale will include the original part-stamped service booklet, some handwritten maintenance invoices, the V5C, and two ignition keys.

CONDITION

• Please refer to the photo gallery to assess the exterior and interior condition.
• Specific notes from the seller include: the vehicle received a full exterior respray during the 2019/20 refurbishment. There is very minor buffing to the front seat bolsters.
• MOT test history is shown via the button in the listing overview.

SERVICE HISTORY

• This Defender’s most recent maintenance was carried out in June 2026 at an indicated 2,383 miles since refurbishment by Yeomans Garage Limited of Clifton-on-Teme, Worcester. The work included an engine oil and filter change, fuel filter replacement, brake fluid change, replacement of the rear brake hose, a new headlight bulb, sump washers, and lubrication of the doors and locks.
• In May 2023, a new oil pressure switch was fitted, a replacement battery was installed, new front and rear anti-roll bar kits were installed, and new water hoses and oil pipes were fitted.
• The seller states that a previous recorded service was completed in May 2022 at 2,029 miles since refurbishment.
• A previous service was completed in June 2020 at an indicated 1 mile since the refurbishment by Simmonites Ltd.

SUMMARY

This Land Rover Defender 90 represents an appealing opportunity to acquire a reportedly comprehensively refurbished example that has been thoughtfully upgraded with a professionally installed automatic transmission conversion. The reportedly extensive programme of work completed by respected Land Rover specialists Simmonites of Bradford included many of the major mechanical and cosmetic areas enthusiasts seek, while only modest mileage has been covered since completion. Equally suited to relaxed road use, rural duties or classic 4x4 events, this automatic Defender combines the timeless character of the original model with improved everyday usability.

Descriptions are provided by the seller and, to their knowledge, are accurate and not misleading. Buyers must satisfy themselves of the description’s accuracy, and independent research is strongly advised. Enquiries should be raised in the comments section and any inspections arranged before bidding.

Classic and collectible vehicles may have had cosmetic or bodywork repairs that are not visually apparent. Photographs may not accurately reflect colour or condition, so buyers should confirm key details directly with the seller. Unless stated otherwise, you must assume that any cherished, personalised, or heritage vehicle registration is not included in the sale of a car or bike. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.