Thank you all for input and opinions on the Defender! I pulled the trigger on it yesterday and am over the moon. As we've seen, it needs plenty of TLC, but is in generally good driver quality condition. I don't really have big plans other than enjoying it and getting some of the needed rust repairs done.
1989 Landrover 90:
- RHD, imported from the UK in 2017
- 75k miles
- gas i4 (weird) with a 5 speed
- solid frame, does need some rust neutralization
- relatively solid firewall, some rust repair was attempted, but needs to be improved upon
The motor shares a lot with the 200tdi from what I'm learning. While quite slow, it seems to be a good workhorse. The truck runs and drives really well. Fires up easy on a cold start or hot start.
We settled on $15k. I got it insured and registered as an antique, now I just need the gas "shortage" to simmer down so I can spend some time just cruising. I know the koolaid is still fresh in me and a Defender has been on the dream car list for a long time so I'm sure I am mentally blinding myself from the laundry list of things this car really needs. I imagine there will be a follow up post of holy crap look at how much stuff the 90 needs!
That said, I feel like the price point leaves me with the ability to flip it today and make money - though that is not my want. I'm excited to start tinkering on it!
I like interior work, so I'll probably spend some time here getting things to a nicer spot.
And if you're in for some hype, here's the insta reel reveal:https://www.instagram.com/p/CO2bDrKhBVB/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Thanks again oppo hive mind! I look forward to sharing the adventures of the 90 alongside the e30 build