BringaTrailer Auction Preview: Professionally converted with LS V8 engine and more...
1994 Land Rover Defender 90 - NAS
Chassis Number – SALDV2281RA940213
Exterior Color – Coniston Green
Interior Color – Cuoio Connolly Leather
Engine – LS3 6.2L V8
Gearbox – 5-speed Jeep AX15 manual
Driveline – 4 Wheel Drive with dual range transfer case
Current Miles – 551.9 miles indicated (TMU)
Highlights
One of 1,943 NAS Defender 90s built in 1994
Function Drives Form restoration and conversion to LS V8 power
TracTive adjustable suspension via dash controls
NAS specific lighting and fitted with Safety Devices roll cage
16” Wolf-style wheels with Michelin Defender tires
General History
Among the most sought-after sport utility vehicles, the legendary Land Rover 90 and 110 series models would be continually produced for decades, serving markets all over the world. In late 1993 the Defender 90 was introduced with North American Specifications specifically built to meet US safety requirements. The Defender was equipped with external and internal roll cages, aluminum body work, 16” alloy wheels, four-wheel disc brakes, and a host of convenience options including factory stereos and air conditioning. Upon release to the public, market interest was seemingly high, however a range of challenges kept production volumes to a minimum over the three-year production run, making these models highly sought-after by enthusiasts and collectors. Today the NAS Defender 90 has become highly desirable in part for the unique and durable design that continues to deliver a powerful visual and mechanical presence despite the near 30-year span since it was announced.
In recent years enthusiasts have enjoyed upgrading these models with improved drivetrains and suspension including conversions performed by leaders in this industry, Function Drives Form.
Current Condition and Ownership
This Land Rover Defender 90 is one of just 1,943 NAS models built for the 1994 year. The current owner purchased this Defender 90 in 2018 and sent it directly to the specialty conversion company Function Drives Form for the first round of body, rust removal, new prep and paint, all new brakes, and other details. The owner enjoyed driving it but by 2024 brought it back for a comprehensive refresh modifying this Defender to the specifications shown today including new engine, transmission, suspension etc. Equipped with an electronically controlled General Motors LS V8 crate engine mated to a Jeep AX15 f-speed manual transmission, the power delivery is more than double that of the original engine. In addition to the driveline upgrade, engine management systems improvements, and transmission, the suspension was also fully updated and controlled by an in-dash TracTive display and computer control module which allows real-time suspension adjustments from the driver’s seat.
Additional enhancements performed on this NAS Defender 90 were thoughtfully integrated while maintaining the integrity and characteristics of the original design. Some of the many upgrades include interior Cuoio Connolly leather, DakotaDigital instruments in the original gauge cluster, air conditioning, 16” Wolf wheels painted to match the soft top, stainless steel exhaust, and enhanced exterior lighting.
Today this Defender 90 presents in excellent condition with beautiful green exterior finishes and excellent Cuoio/black interior. The exterior finishes are typical of this series including excellent black trim, wheel arch trim, and a set of 16” stamped steel Wolf wheels wearing Michelin Defender LT265/75R16 radial tires. The exterior features a black tubular front grille guard, black rear tubular bumper, and black tubular rocker panel steps. A removable taupe colored fabric top is in place with removable rear side curtains, integrated roll bar with padded portions on the inside, and a swing-away spare tire mounted at the rear. This Defender 90 wears a cast aluminum Land Rover England nameplate displaying the Defender 90 name, stamped 912.
The interior is outfitted with a host of original restored features and modest upgrades, the cosmetic condition is quite nice throughout with no major flaws to the interior, excellent leather seating surfaces, and matching Cuoio leather inward facing rear seats. The stereo has been upgraded with an Alpine unit mounted inside the hinged center console unit which powers a set of Audison door speakers. Other nice interior touches include Rovers North fabric map pockets on the doors, a black triple -poke padded steering wheel, and Land Rover branded cargo mat.
The current owner has enjoyed the car over the past two years of ownership, keeping the miles driven to a minimum while servicing the car as needed. This Defender 90 starts and drives very well. The power from the LS V8 engine is remarkably robust and works very well with the 5-speed manual transmission. Handling is also surprisingly rewarding given the taller stance. Four wheel ventilated disc brakes do a great job of bringing the D90 down from highway speeds smoothly and evenly tracked. The underside is in excellent condition with only modest evidence of use, stainless steel exhaust, robust suspension, solid axles, and 4WD transfer case.
Included with the car
This Defender 90 is accompanied by a set of tools, a tool roll, and a bottle jack.
The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.
Fantasy Junction • 510-653-7555 • 1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608