The Car
Registered in Paris and originally delivered in 1997, this Defender was acquired earlier this year. Upon its arrival, the vehicle was found in excellent mechanical condition, with the exterior bodywork and paintwork remarkably well preserved. The chassis, while showing minor signs of surface wear typical for its age, was in exceptional condition, with even the rear crossmember requiring no replacement. Previously used as a work vehicle, the rear tub had been lined with fiberglass, which protected the underlying structure, leaving it in pristine condition.
A comprehensive overhaul was undertaken, which included lifting the body from the chassis. The chassis itself was stripped and refinished using a two-stage epoxy primer followed by a durable topcoat. Key components such as the brakes were also overhauled, with deteriorated brake lines replaced, alongside the rear A-frame ball joint and rear anti-roll bar bushes. New Bilstein springs and a steering damper were fitted, along with heavy-duty zinc-plated steering rods, further enhancing the vehicle's handling and performance. Full details of the extensive work can be provided upon request.
While the body was removed, the inner tub, bulkhead, and floors were prepped, primed, and treated with a textured bedliner finish for long-term durability. The driver’s footwell, a common corrosion point due to thin steel under the pedals, was replaced to ensure structural integrity. Additional upgrades include a new rear half safari door fitted with a Swingway wheel carrier and galvanized TD5 door hinges.
The interior retains its original Moreland Twill trim and features a 3-seat front configuration. The previous owner added an aftermarket steering wheel, which complements the vehicle's original charm. Externally, the vehicle now sports LED lights for enhanced night-time visibility, a new Exmoor Sand canvas hood with side windows, and an integral roll hoop from Safety Devices, featuring three-point seatbelt harnesses for front occupants. This roll hoop is mounted on a galvanized stick set that provides robust support for the canvas.
Fitted with BF Goodrich all-terrain tires (235/85/R16) mounted on factory steel rims, the vehicle is also equipped with Land Rover genuine mudflaps, a new powder-coated front bumper with TD5 end caps, and stainless steel fixings throughout for added durability. The original galvanized cappings have been preserved, and the addition of galvanized rock sliders with jacking points enhances the Defender’s off-road capabilities while maintaining its rugged, original aesthetic. This meticulously upgraded and restored Defender is ready for both everyday use and rugged adventures.
Delivery & Paperwork
This vehicle is currently located in Europe. We can offer shipping and all necessary import procedures to the USA for $3,850. This includes shipping to Port of Baltimore or Brunswick along with export/import clearance and terminal handling charges at the destination port. The following tariffs apply for US importation of passenger vehicles:
– Bond Fee: Single Entry 1.3515% of Vehicle Value
– Import Duty and HMF / MFP: 2.9714% of Vehicle Value
We can arrange insurance coverage for your vehicle during shipping to provide you with peace of mind. We offer All-risk insurance at a rate of 2.2% of the vehicle value. Please note that this insurance policy has a deductible (excess) of $1,250 and a minimum premium of $125. Our insurance is arranged through Abbott and Bramwell Insurance Brokers and underwritten by Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance plc, ensuring reliable coverage for your vehicle.
Upon completion of the sale, you will receive the foreign registration document and Bill of Sale, accompanied by a Heritage Certificate. If the buyer chooses our shipping and import services, they will also receive essential import documents for the US, including:
– Department of Transportation (DOT) Declaration
– Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Declaration
– Stamped CBP 7501 Entry Summary
These documents are crucial for obtaining a title from your state DMV. If needed, we can connect buyers with a title agency service in your state to assist with the title arrangement. Feel free to contact us for further assistance.
For additional information and answers to common queries regarding shipping and purchase, you can refer to our Shipping and Purchase FAQs on our website, Samuellloydco, accessible through the FAQ page.
History Of The Land Rover
The Land Rover Series range, originating in 1948, evolved into the Defender model, officially launched in 1983 and concluding its continuous run in January 2016 after an impressive 67-year history. Initially inspired by the US-built Willys Jeep post-World War II, Land Rovers gained widespread longevity, with a claim in 1992 that 70% of all vehicles ever manufactured were still in use. Throughout its production span, the Defender and Series ranges maintained a distinctive international presence, being exported, manufactured, and produced under license by various companies in diverse markets. These markets included Australia, Southern and North Africa, Turkey, Brazil, Pakistan, Malaysia, and more.
In a strategic move to tap into the US market, Land Rover entered the North American scene in 1993, following the successful introduction of the Range Rover brand in 1987. This move aimed to provide a sophisticated alternative to the Jeep Wrangler, catering to adventurous buyers. However, economic challenges led Land Rover to withdraw from the North American and Canadian markets in 1997. The Defenders offered in the US during the 90s underwent significant modifications compared to those destined for Land Rover’s other export markets. Subsequent amendments to federal safety regulations ultimately compelled Land Rover to entirely remove the Defender from the US market in 1997. Consequently, the company redirected its focus towards the production of upmarket Discovery and Range Rover models, built from the ground up.
