Hi all, new to the forum.

I've had my eye on a defender for a while now, especially since my dad used to own one when I was younger (many fond memories). A 1989 300tdi model has come up for sale near me for £7500.

From the pictures, the bodywork seems tidy, and the seller states no serious rust on either the chassis or bulkhead. It's a bit of a high miler (240k), but the seller lists some recent work done, which I've copied in below;
"Defender 300tdi for sale
Recent paint
Very good chassis and bulkhead with no nasty repairs.
4 brand new bfgoodwich km3 tyres
Nice seats and cubby box
New propshafts and drive members.
New genuine mudlfaps. And sidesteps.
New radiator. Lift pump and full service all done within the last 500 miles."

My two major concerns are the fact that the listing has very few images (but I live very locally so would be easy to see in person/test if a scam) and the fact there is a pretty long gap on the MOT, which I imagine is due to the car being SORNed.

I'm also not too familiar with these trucks mechanically/electrically (although I plan to learn and do as much of the maintenance myself as possible), so was wondering if any of the past fails/advisories were a major cause for concern.

Cheers in advance, and if there's anything I've missed, please let me know.

EDIT - plate is unclear on the image, it is G308 GEY

Splashcat said:

It's a bit of a high miler (240k)

Click to expand...

At that age mileage is not relevant and you need to buy on conditions. Firstly of chassis and bulkhead, secondly on mechanicals. I have over 400k on my ‘89 110. But only a few body panels have actually done all of that mileage

Splashcat said:

although I plan to learn and do as much of the maintenance myself as possible

Click to expand...

There is no easier vehicle to learn on. And that’s exactly what I did. Bought at 18 as a student with no money so was forced to learn to maintain and repair it myself buying the tools needed as I went.

A long gap between lots is not a red flag for a vehicle like this of this age. As long as there are no advisories for corrosion that have not been rectified very little you will get advised on a mot is difficult or expensive to repair on an old defender.

Just so you know, if you didn't already, they never made a 1989 300tdi.
Post the advert and check it has a vin number relevant to the vehicle.
It is highly likely it will have rust, you just have to find it.

It looks nice in the picture. However, look beyond the paintwork, alloys and steps. Make sure it’s not just tarted up. The engine is not original. It’s most likely from a disco 1. What does the seller consider a nasty repair? If the chassis and bulkhead are original, they will have had or likely need repair at some point. Check the MoT history to give a clue where issues have been found although rust will be more extensive than you think if you do find any as chassis and bulkheads rust from the inside. Take someone with you who knows landies when you view it.