1997 Land Rover Defender 90

1997 Land Rover Defender 90 NAS Soft Top – 66k Miles, Highly Original, British Racing Green

Offered here is a 1997 Land Rover Defender 90 North American Specification Soft Top, one of just 2,799 imported to the United States for the final model year. Of those 2,799 imported to the United States 1,499 were produced as Soft Tops. This example shows 66,000 original miles and remains highly original, with its only modification being an upgraded exhaust system. Finished in British Racing Green with a grey vinyl interior, it retains its factory left-hand drive configuration and includes both a bikini top and full soft top.

Power comes from the 4.0-liter V8 paired with a 4-speed ZF automatic transmission, sending power to all four wheels through a full-time 4WD system with a dual-range transfer case and locking center differential. The truck also features 4-wheel disc brakes, the factory NAS external/internal roll cage, and factory alloy wheels.

This Defender has been in long-term ownership since 2008 and is accompanied by a complete folder of history dating back to the first owner. The documentation includes invoices and records that confirm mileage progression throughout its life.

Features:
66,000 original miles
4.0L GEMS V8 engine
Distributorless EFI system
4-speed ZF automatic transmission (4HP22EH)
Full-time 4WD
Dual-range transfer case (LT230)
Locking center differential
4-wheel disc brakes
16-inch Rover wheels
265/75 Cooper Discover MTP tires
Factory NAS roll cage
British Racing Green exterior
Grey vinyl interior
Factory A/C and heat
Bikini top and full soft top included
Complete history folder with invoices and mileage documentation
One of 2,799 NAS Defenders built for the U.S.
92.9-inch wheelbase

VIN Breakdown:
S – Manufacturer: Land Rover
A – Vehicle Type: Multi-purpose vehicle (SUV)
L – Make: Land Rover
D – Model: Defender
Y – Restraint system: Manual seatbelts (NAS spec)
2 – Body type: 2-door utility / Soft Top
2 – Engine: 4.0L V8 (GEMS, automatic)
4 – Transmission/Drive: 4-speed ZF automatic, full-time 4WD
5 – Check digit (used for VIN validation)
V – Model Year: 1997
A – Assembly plant: Solihull, UK
115959 – Sequential production number

Overall, this Defender presents as a well-kept and largely original example of the sought-after 1997 NAS Soft Top. The paint shows well in British Racing Green, and the interior remains clean with its original grey vinyl. As with many unrestored Defenders, there are some signs of age present: minor surface rust in select areas and some carpet under the seats lifting around the edges. The truck retains excellent structural integrity and continues to perform as it should. With its originality, low miles, and thorough documentation, this is a desirable NAS Defender ready for continued enjoyment or preservation.

As one of the final and most collectible iterations of the Defender ever officially offered in the United States, this 1997 NAS Soft Top combines rarity, originality, and documented history. It represents an opportunity to own a piece of Land Rover's heritage that can be equally appreciated as a weekend driver, off-road adventurer, or long-term investment.

Now available through V Fine Motorcars in Austin, TX. Contact us today!