You don’t stumble across a 1997 Land Rover Defender 90 NAS with 20k miles every day. Especially not one that’s still with its original owner. This Alpine White truck isn’t trying to be collectible, it’s just been used sparingly and kept functional.
North American-Specification Defenders were limited to around 2,800 units for 1997. This one wears plaque #2,306 and comes with a clean Carfax and a New Mexico title. The hood’s been repainted, and the roof rack was trimmed to fit inside a garage. That’s not restoration, it’s adaptation.
Exterior Features of the 1997 Land Rover Defender 90 NAS
The Alpine White paint contrasts with black wheel arch flares and a factory roll cage. A Warn winch, brush guard, roof rack, ladder, and side steps round out the utility gear. The tubular rear bumper and receiver hitch suggest towing wasn’t off the table. Windshield vents and a sunroof add ventilation options, though the air conditioning doesn’t work.
Wheels, Tires, and Braking Setup
Five-spoke 16″ alloy wheels wear BFGoodrich All-Terrain tires. A matching spare hangs off the rear. Disc brakes at all four corners handle stopping duties. Nothing fancy, just the basics done right.
Interior Condition and Equipment
Inside, the gray vinyl seats show minimal wear. The locking center console and inward-facing rear seat reflect the NAS layout. A cassette stereo sits in the dash, though modern compatibility is limited. Gauges include a 120-mph speedometer, coolant temp, and fuel level. The odometer reads 20,000 miles.
Powertrain Specs and Mechanical Updates
Under the hood, the 4.0-liter V8 delivers 182 horsepower and 233 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a four-speed automatic, a dual-range transfer case, and a locking center differential. The seller reports recent replacement of the radiator, hoses, and fuel pump. Fluids were serviced ahead of the sale. The truck hasn’t passed California smog, so plan accordingly.
Summary
This 1997 Land Rover Defender 90 NAS isn’t a polished museum piece. It’s a low-mileage, original-owner truck with practical upgrades and honest wear. If you’re looking for a clean NAS-spec example that hasn’t been over-restored, this one keeps things grounded.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The information provided is based on market trends and personal opinions and should not be considered financial or investment advice. Readers should always conduct their own research and consult with a professional advisor before making any decisions.
Source & Details: bringatrailer.com
