The Land Rover Defender holds an unparalleled status in the automotive world, renowned for its formidable capability to conquer diverse terrains and contribute to global development in the most remote areas. This iconic vehicle manages to achieve all this while possessing an aesthetic appeal that could grace any prestigious design compilation.
The subject of our attention is not just any Defender; it is a meticulously maintained 1995 Defender 90 SW, recognized as unit #255 out of a limited production run of merely 500 vehicles from that year. With a remarkably low mileage of just 37,676, this example stands as a testament to preservation, having largely escaped the common pitfalls of excessive modifications or strenuous usage.
Showcasing a pristine white finish complemented by a matching hardtop, this Defender maintains an immaculate appearance. It proudly retains its original bodywork and trim, including the distinctive Alpine windows. The addition of Hella Rallye 3000 fog lights subtly enhances its classic expedition character. The factory 5-spoke \"Freestyle\" alloy wheels, paired with BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO tires, expertly combine historical styling with practical off-road functionality. Furthermore, a full-size spare tire is conveniently mounted on the swing-out carrier at the rear. The vehicle's elevated stance and compact wheelbase afford impressive approach angles, a feature modern SUVs often lack.
For those familiar with the Defender's cabin, the black interior offers a purely functional experience. Configured for four occupants, it features classic jump seats in the back and durable materials throughout. This utilitarian design proves ideal for navigating muddy conditions or transporting equipment, emphasizing utility over superficial concerns like touchscreen smudges. Yet, it does not forsake comfort entirely; this SW variant includes air conditioning, and the tilt-out windows provide excellent ventilation, especially when venturing without the roof or doors. The traditional analog controls offer a complete, authentic driving experience without compromising essential features.
Under the hood, this 1995 Defender 90 is equipped with a classic 3.9-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine, coupled with a 5-speed manual transmission. While not engineered for high-speed performance, its robust low-end torque and mechanical simplicity are integral to the Defender's enduring appeal. Electronic fuel injection ensures reliable operation without complicating its traditional drivetrain. The full-time four-wheel-drive system solidifies its status as a highly capable, go-anywhere SUV. This combination ensures the vehicle is equally at home traversing challenging off-road trails or cruising leisurely down urban streets.
While the market is flooded with customized Defenders, locating an example as untouched, original, and well-maintained as this one is a rarity. With just over 37,000 miles recorded, this vehicle has not been subjected to harsh off-road conditions or extensive aftermarket alterations. As unit number 255 of only 500 SW hardtops produced for the U.S. market, it represents a true collector-grade asset. For those seeking an authentic Defender experience that combines usability with historical integrity, this particular model is an unmissable opportunity that will only become harder to acquire over time.