The Car
Built on the 28th of July 1999 in Solihull, England, this Land Rover Defender TD5 Highlander Edition was destined as an export model for Land Rover France SAS. Delivered to a Parisian Land Rover dealer and first registered on 7th December 1999, this vehicle may well represent one of the rarest variants of the Highlander line.
Originally owned by its first keeper until February 2004, the vehicle was then purchased by its second owner, restaurateur Helaine Regis. It has benefited from low ownership, with just two custodians over its life. Despite a documented 185,000 miles, the Defender presents in remarkable condition, a testament to careful maintenance.
The Highlander Edition was Introduced in 1996 as a limited series exclusive to Land Rover France SAS, and quickly gained popularity, blending Epsom Green Micatallic paint with quintessentially British styling and added luxury accessories. Originally intended for the 1996 model year only, demand extended production until 1999. However, TD5-powered Highlanders are exceedingly rare, as the 300TDI variants dominated production until they transitioned to the TD5 in late 1998. This example, likely one of the few produced during a brief six-month TD5 production window, stands as a true rarity.
Factory-Original Features Include:
The Defender retains its original factory paint across the bodywork, save for the roof, which was refinished early in its life to match the Epsom Green body (originally Alpine White). Factory spot welds are present on the front and rear wings, underscoring bodyworks originality. Upgrades include LED Wipac indicators, brake lights, and side lights, enhancing visibility while respecting the Defender’s character. Original Britax door mirrors and factory-etched glass bearing the chassis number—a unique French security feature—remain intact.
The cabin defies its mileage, featuring original seating for seven (three front seats and two rear benches), factory rubber mats throughout, and a newly retrimmed grey Alcantara headliner. While the original cassette player is absent, a tasteful modern Blaupunkt Madrid 200BT with Bluetooth provides a period look.
The chassis is remarkably well-preserved, retaining its original factory finish, stickers, and even Braille dot axle markings are very clear and easily visible in the photo gallery, rare touches for a vehicle of this age. Maintenance history since 2013 documents extensive maintenance, including:
Additionally, rebuilt calipers, new brake discs, and pads ensure reliable stopping power. Mudflaps, door hinges, and external details have been replaced or upgraded for durability.
This 1999 Land Rover Defender TD5 Highlander Edition is a rare gem, combining low ownership, a detailed service history, and unique features to make it one of the rarest Defenders available.
