For Sale: 1997 Land Rover Defender in Aiken, South Carolina

This 1997 Land Rover Defender 90 is stored in our Aiken, SC climate-controlled showroom. The inventory shown is owned, maintained, and driven by us here at Car Cave USA. For more information and to view our large inventory of Defenders, visit www.carcaveusa.com.A walk-around video is available tomorrow on our YouTube channel @carcaveusaSimple and easy finance options are available through our classic car preferred lenders, Woodside Credit and Collector Car Lending With knowledgeable teams that understand the value of your unique vehicle, an accessible online form that helps you find the best terms, and a quick response time, classic car lenders can help you drive off in your dream vehicle.We can customize your Defender purchase to match your vision. From performance upgrades and air conditioning to roll cages and accessories, Car Cave brass is dedicated to building Defenders that are both refined and capable.Highlights60K Original MilesSourced From a Dry Climate300Tdi Turbo Diesel Engine.This Defender 90 was built in November 1996 at the Solihull, UK factory and first registered in Italy on January 3, 1997. Sourced by Car Cave from the dry climate of Italy, this example benefits from the kind of preservation that enthusiasts are constantly searching for?free from the typical rust and rot issues that plague many Defenders. The chassis, bulkhead, and overall structure present exactly how you want to see one: clean, solid, and unmolested.Finished in its original paint and retaining its original interior, this is an increasingly rare find. Powered by the proven 300Tdi 2.5L turbo diesel paired with the R380 5-speed manual transmission, it delivers the simplicity, reliability, and mechanical honesty that define the Defender platform. With just 60,530 miles, this is a low-mileage, well-preserved example that has been properly sorted.Cosmetically, the truck maintains its factory look with subtle functional upgrades including rear light guards, mudflaps, and a fresh headliner. It sits on brand new 265/75R16 Nitto Terra Grappler G3 all-terrain tires, giving it the right stance while maintaining excellent on-road comfort. The original factory jack is still present?another indicator of how complete and original this Defender remains.Where this Defender truly stands apart is in the mechanical investment. Car Cave completed a comprehensive service totaling over $10,000, addressing known 300Tdi concerns and going far beyond routine maintenance. This includes a full timing system upgrade with billet crank gear, oil pump service, cooling system refresh, clutch hydraulics overhaul, steering system refresh, suspension work, and extensive hardware and sealing improvements throughout. The result is a Defender that starts easily, shifts smoothly, and drives exactly how it should?tight, sorted, and ready to be used.This is the kind of Defender you want: original where it matters, dry climate preserved, properly serviced, and ready for the next owner to enjoy immediately.Upgrades and Features1997 Land Rover Defender 90Built November 1996 - Solihull, UKFirst Registered January 3, 1997 - ItalyR380 5-Speed Manual TransmissionLeft Hand DriveNew 16' Sawtooth Alloy WheelsBrand New 265/75R16 Nitto Terra Grappler G3 A/T TiresNew Terra 97,420 Kilometers (60,530 Miles)Original PaintOriginal InteriorDry Climate Italian ExampleRust-Free Chassis and BulkheadNew HeadlinerRear Light GuardsMudflapsFactory JackRecent Car Cave Service and Maintenance (Over $10,000 Invested)Timing Belt Upgrade Kit with Updated ComponentsOil Pump Service and Timing System OverhaulNew Water Pump Gasket and Full Cooling System ServiceRadiator Hoses ReplacedClutch Master and Slave Cylinder ReplacementUpgraded Stainless Braided Clutch LineFull Clutch Hydraulic System BleedValve Cover Gasket ReplacementOil Pan Reseal and Full Fluid ServiceFuel Filter and Oil Filter ReplacementBattery and Terminals ReplacementA-Frame Ball Joint ReplacementFront and Rear Differential Gaskets ReplacedGear Oil Service (75W90)Steering System Overhaul with New Hoses and Steering DamperTie Rod Ends Replaced and Alignment PerformedBulkhead Vent Seals and Hardware ReplacementDoor Hinges, Hardware, and Alignment ServiceLighting Repairs Including Side Markers and License Plate LightWindshield Brackets and Hardware ReplacementInterior Refresh Including Pedal Pads and Trim ComponentsFull Exterior Detail and Interior Service