Introduction
Glyn Parry
Rare, rugged, and BMW powered - the Defender 90 2.8i is a true collector’s gem, with only 656 ever made.
The Land Rover Defender 90 2.8i is a rare and highly sought-after example of a unique chapter in Defender history. Built exclusively for the South African market, this model was fitted from the factory with the powerful BMW M52 2.8i straight-six petrol engine - a major performance leap over previous Defender power plants.
The 2.8i Defenders were the result of close collaboration between Land Rover South Africa and BMW AG following the BMW takeover, making them top priority at the time. With only 656 D90s and 739 D110s ever produced, this limited run of just ~1,395 vehicles has become a prized piece of Land Rover heritage.
This particular example has had a lot of time and money spent on it by MadeYouLook - a specialist and well known M52 2.8i restoration house in S.A - this build was titled by themselves as MYL 009.
What a job MYL have done - it's in stunning condition and combines classic Defender toughness with smooth BMW performance - the car stands out as both a collectors' gem and a hard working, characterful 4x4.
If you're after something that stands out from some of the others on the road, this is something well worth a closer look at - super rare, lovely condition and capable of just about any track or road condition; there's a good reason this is built for tough adventuring.
This listing was written from information supplied by Glyn after meeting Jim the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.
