1997 Land Rover Defender 90 300Tdi 5-Speed * Full Restoration*

1997 Land Rover Defender 90 – Reborn Defenders Restoration, “La Rioja” Commission

Highlights: 

• Brooklyn Grey Metallic
• Fully retrimmed bespoke brown alcantara 
• 300Tdi 2.5L Turbo Diesel Inline-Four
• 5-Speed Manual
•  Dual-Range 4WD w/ Locking Center Differential
• ~ 500 Miles Since Full Restoration
• 16" Wolf Wheels
• 235/85R16 All-Terrain Tires
• Factory Heater & Defrost (Fully Functional)
• Restoration By Reborn Defenders (Spain)
• Project Name: “La Rioja” Commission

We are proud to present this beautifully restored 1997 Land Rover Defender 90, a thoughtfully executed build completed in Spain. Finished in Brooklyn Grey Metallic over a fully retrimmed interior, this example has covered only a few hundred miles since its comprehensive restoration and remains in exceptional, turn-key condition.

This particular Defender carries a unique and authentic history, having spent 25 years with a single owner—a farmer in the La Rioja region of northern Spain—where it was used for vineyard work. The restoration project was aptly named “La Rioja,” paying tribute to its origins. In a distinctive nod to its past, the chassis was refinished in the vehicle’s original body color rather than the standard black, subtly preserving and honoring its heritage within the build.

The restoration process involved a full disassembly, with the chassis stripped, refinished, and rebuilt, and the aluminum body panels removed, corrected, and resprayed to a high standard in its current Brooklyn Grey Metallic finish. Mechanical systems were comprehensively addressed, including the 300Tdi diesel engine, 5-speed manual transmission, and dual-range four-wheel-drive system. The drivetrain was serviced throughout, while suspension components, bushings, braking systems, and cooling systems were refreshed to ensure proper drivability and reliability.

Inside, the cabin has been fully reworked with upgraded materials and improved refinement, while maintaining the Defender’s utilitarian character. Notably, this example retains a properly functioning factory heater and defrost system—an often overlooked but highly desirable feature. Additional enhancements include LED lighting and subtle usability upgrades that complement the vehicle without detracting from its analog appeal.

Riding on 16-inch Wolf wheels wrapped in 235/85R16 tires, the stance is both purposeful and period-correct. The overall aesthetic draws tasteful comparisons to high-end retro Defender builds, while remaining a distinct and independently executed restoration.

Since completion, the vehicle has seen minimal use and presents today as a freshly restored, well-sorted example ready for immediate enjoyment. For those seeking a Defender with genuine history, high-quality restoration, and distinctive character, this “La Rioja” build represents a compelling opportunity.