1987 LAND ROVER DEFENDER2.5L Diesel

The Land Rover Defender presents a current roadworthy status following a passed MOT on 9 May 2025 at 208,017 miles, with the maintenance trend appearing stable across the recent record. The test history shows no defects recorded at any stage, though the vehicle failed twice without listed faults on 26 October 2023 at 206,601 miles and 9 May 2025 at 208,016 miles, then passed on the same day in both instances. This pattern suggests administrative or presentation issues at the testing station rather than mechanical failure, and no worsening condition is evident from the data supplied. The recorded mileage of 208,017 miles against a 39-year lifespan equates to roughly 5,334 miles per year, which is low for a working 4x4 of this type. Between the October 2023 test at 206,614 miles and the May 2025 pass at 208,017 miles, the vehicle covered only 1,403 miles across nineteen months. Such limited use implies prolonged standing periods, a known contributor to seized brake calipers, degraded rubber suspension bushes, and corrosion on chassis members when moisture collects unchecked. A buyer should physically inspect the chassis and bulkhead for structural rust, given the age and low-use profile that accelerates hidden corrosion. The absence of advisories on the record does not preclude worn coil springs or perished steering joints typical of a 1987 Defender, and the twin same-day fail-pass entries warrant confirmation that no outstanding brake disc or exhaust emissions faults were masked by retest procedure. Prior to purchase, verify the function of all drivetrain seals and check for binding handbrake mechanisms after the long idle intervals shown in the mileage gaps. The clean MOT slate is reassuring but reflects only the tester's snapshot, not a guarantee of component life on a vehicle of this vintage.