The Land Rover Defender name was officially introduced in 1990, marking a major turning point in the evolution of the coil-sprung utility Land Rovers. From that point until 2016, the Defender range developed steadily – with a succession of updates to engines, trim levels, equipment and body styles.

Built to work but increasingly adapted for leisure and lifestyle use, the Defender 90, 110 and 130 became icons in their own right. Today they are prized by collectors and enthusiasts, but also in demand by buyers seeking the right example – with originality and correct specification often making all the difference.

This book is the ultimate reference for understanding what left the factory, when, and how to spot it. It covers every major production change, all key engine and trim variants, plus special editions and regional versions including North American models. Over 330 photographs highlight factory-correct examples, supported by expert commentary from leading Land Rover historian James Taylor.

Factory-Original Land Rover Defender is ideal for restorers, owners – and anyone considering a purchase – who wants to ensure they have the right vehicle, with the right parts and features in place.

Key features:

– Covers all Defender 90, 110 and 130 models from 1990 to 2016

– Includes body styles, trim levels, engine and drivetrain options

– Detailed breakdowns of special editions and export models

– Packed with expert insight and over 330 photographs

– Essential for restorers, buyers and enthusiasts alike

James Taylor is the author of several dozen books on motoring history, written for a number of different publishers. An acknowledged expert on the post-war British motor industry, he has a special interest in the products of the Rover car company and is widely recognised as one of the leading authorities on Land Rovers. He is also a former editor of Land Rover Enthusiast magazine.

James has written extensively on the marque, including Factory-Original Land Rover Series I, 80in Models, Factory-Original Land Rover Series I, 86-, 88-, 107- & 109-inch Models, The Complete Catalogue of the Land Rover, and The Complete Catalogue of Land Rover Conversions & Accessories, all published by Herridge & Sons. He lives in rural Oxfordshire with his wife and the younger two of his four children, surrounded by books about cars – and usually with something old and interesting in the garage.