To celebrate 50 years of Land Rover, just 1,071 special edition Defenders were built in 1998 — 385 for the UK and the rest for overseas markets. This example, number 129, came to us in part exchange against an Arkonik custom build and is a truly exceptional find.
Essentially a NAS-spec Defender 90 Station Wagon, the 50th featured the 188 bhp 4.0-litre V8, 4-speed ZF automatic gearbox, air conditioning, and a Safety Devices front roll cage. All UK and European versions were finished in the striking Atlantis Blue and carried a numbered plaque marking their exclusivity.
First registered in April 1999, this Defender has been expertly refurbished by Masai4x4 in Staffordshire. It now sits on a galvanised chassis, with freshly resprayed bodywork, new black leather seats piped in cream, sound deadening, and a new carpet set. The original radio remains, enhanced with upgraded speakers and Alpine tweeters for improved sound quality.
Mechanically, the fuel system has been rebuilt, and the V8 runs beautifully — delivering that unmistakable Land Rover burble. Fitted with uprated brakes and suspension. Finished with original 16” Freestyle alloys, BFGoodrich All-Terrains, side steps, and a Masai A-Bar with yellow-tinted fog lamps, this example has covered 77,500 miles across six owners. A rare, collectible Defender and a sound long-term investment.
