Land Rover - Defender (1987)

When you think of classic off‑road capability, the Land Rover Defender frequently comes to mind. This iconic vehicle, first introduced in 1987, remains a benchmark for rugged performance as well as a coveted collector’s item. Whether you’re checking the Land Rover Defender price to plan your budget, researching a Land Rover Defender 1987 price for a collectible, or looking at a used Land Rover Defender price for a practical adventure machine, this guide offers a clear snapshot of what you can expect in today’s market.

• Engine: 2.0L I4, 4.4L V8, and 6.5L Cummins Diesel options available (depending on year and trim)
• Transmission: 4‑ or 6‑speed manual; automatic options in later model years
• Fuel Type: Petrol or Diesel, with optional LPG injection in some variants
• Dimensions:
  • Wheelbase: 105.5" (2625 mm) – spacious for both off‑road and family use
  • Length: 181.2" (4600 mm) – compact compared to larger land rovers
  • Width: 72.8" (1848 mm) – allows for side‑by‑side seating
  • Height: 77.5" (1965 mm) – low centre of gravity
• Weight: Ranges from 3,300 lb (1494 kg) to 3,700 lb (1678 kg) depending on configuration
• Power: 3.2‑4.4 kW (approx. 34‑86 hp) in the 1987 models; modern 6.5L diesel produces 170‑200 hp
• Torque: Up to 350 lb‑ft (475 Nm) in most late‑model engines
• Drivetrain: Permanent 4WD with low‑range transfer case in most early and mid‑generation models
• Seating Capacity: 2‑seat (standard) or optional 4‑seat layout
• Top Speed: Typically 70‑75 mph (112‑120 km/h) for earlier units; newer models achieve 80 mph (129 km/h)
• Fuel Economy: 16‑20 mpg (cylinders) for petrol, 18‑22 mpg for diesel (city/highway averages)

The Land Rover Defender depreciation remains a compelling point of discussion for prospective buyers. Classic models, especially those from 1987, benefit from a steep early depreciation curve but then tend to hold value due to scarcity and iconic status. Below are realistic estimates based on historical sales data and current trend analyses:

• First year: typically loses 15‑20 % of its value when purchased new or early in a second‑hand transaction.
• Years 2‑5: average annual depreciation ranges from 8‑12 %.
• Years 6‑10: the curve flattens to 3‑5 % per year as the vehicle becomes a classic.
• Beyond ten years: depreciation slows further, often stabilizing or even appreciating for rare, well‑maintained examples.

This depreciation trajectory means that if you’re evaluating the used Land Rover Defender price, you can anticipate a certain baseline value. The exact figure depends on mileage, maintenance history, originality, and market demand. The 1987 Defender, in particular, is rare enough that collectors often view it as a long‑term investment rather than a depreciating asset.

In the collector’s marketplace, a pristine 1987 Land Rover Defender can fetch anywhere between six and ten times its original purchase cost, depending heavily on condition and provenance. Even heavily used or lower‑mileage examples generally command premium pricing. The value of a 1987 Defender is thus closely tied to lot condition, oil changes, and any unique restoration work.

Compared to similar models, such as the Jeep Wrangler