Used Land Rover Defender Cars For Sale

Overview

Ever since Land Rover ended production of the Defender in January 2016, interest has peaked. One of the world’s most recognisable four-wheel drives suddenly got a bit more iconic. Among the road-focused 4x4s, it stands out as a genuine off-roader and that rarity in today’s market means fans of the Defender will put up with some limitations.

What you need to know about the Land Rover Defender

The Defender is a car with a purpose. With a ladder chassis and live axles, it's pretty much a basic off-road truck. A 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine, combined with a six-speed manual gearbox and a full-time four-wheel drive set-up, make it a capable off-roader.

The low gearing lets the vehicle crawl over extreme terrain and pull away with ease, without clutch slip. To make the Defender more liveable on-road, the axles are coupled to anti-roll bars.

With three wheelbases and pick-up, high-capacity pick-up, double-cab, van and station wagon body styles, there’s a lot to choose from. But that’s if you can get your hands on one for a good price. Whilst the Defender has obvious flaws - including a surprising lack of equipment and practical cabin space for a car of that size and price - resale values remain exceptional. Unbeatable really.

What you need to watch out for

When we reviewed the Defender before production stopped, we knew it was noisy, cramped and bumpy. Part of you will love it though – it just depends how much you really want it. Its appeal is largely to people who spend time off-road and towing.

We found the ride and handling a struggle at first. As time goes on, the driving experience becomes tolerable, even entertaining. After all, there’s a reason it’s a British motoring legend.

Other options

• Toyota Land Cruiser
• Jeep Wrangler
• Subaru Forester

Expert opinion

The Defender isn’t claiming to be great value for money. Which is lucky. It’s in another world to other cars. But it’s not like other cars. What it lacks in on-road manners it more than makes up for in one-of-a-kind charm and sheer character. Find a Defender today with Exchange & Mart.

Why buy a used Land Rover Defender with Exchange and Mart?

Launched in 1948 and still selling well, the classic Land Rover makes an unusual used buy. The original model was re-launched as the Defender in 1990. Still however, you find few who use the name. To most of us, this car will remain quite simply the definitive Land Rover; nothing more, nothing less.The Defender has a growing cult reputation both as a new and used vehicle. Behind the wheel, you realise just how silly and ineffectual most trendy modern off-roaders are in comparison. They may look fashionable around town but get them out in the country and they flounder. This then, is one for the serious off-road enthusiast. Look carefully before you buy, though, as unlike many other 4x4s, most Defenders will have spent a lot of time off-road.

About the Land Rover Defender

More than 1.5 million Land Rover vehicles have been produced since the original was launched in 1948, so you're buying something of a robust legend. Drive before you buy, to be sure you can put up with the somewhat agricultural nature of some versions, though. A bit of noise and a somewhat relaxed cruising pace will help to remind you you're the owner of a little piece of rugged British history.