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Land Rover

Land Rover - Defender (1996)

Ever wondered what the Land Rover Defender price looks like for a classic 1996 model? The Defender has long been celebrated for rugged versatility and timeless styling. 1996 was a pivotal year, when the Defender burst into a broader market segment, marrying off‑road prowess with everyday practicality. In this guide we’ll walk through typical price cues, core specifications, depreciation trends, and how the Defender stacks up against its peers—so you can answer that burning question: what is a 1996 Land Rover Defender worth?

Key Specifications – 1996 Land Rover Defender

  • Engine: 2.5‑L 4‑cyl or 2.8‑L 4‑cyl turbo inline‑4 (depending on region)
  • Power: 130–160 hp, 156–208 lb‑ft torque (depending on engine variant)
  • Transmission: 4‑speed automatic or 5‑speed manual (automatic more common in the U.S.)
  • Fuel type: Regular unleaded gasoline
  • Drivetrain: Permanent 4‑Wheel Drive (4×4) with selectable modes
  • Top speed: Approximately 110–130 mph, depending on gear ratios
  • Fuel economy: Roughly 12–15 mpg city / 17–20 mpg highway (combined 13–16 mpg)
  • Dimensions:
    • Wheelbase: 103 in (2,618 mm)
    • Front track: 66 in (1,676 mm)
    • Rear track: 66 in (1,676 mm)
    • Vehicle height: 74 in (1,880 mm)
    • Ground clearance: 11 in (280 mm) without other mods
  • Weight: Approximately 3,300–3,600 lb (1,500–1,632 kg) curb weight
  • Capacity: 3‑seat (driver + 2) or 4‑seat (with optional 2‑seat vehicular bench), plus a mid‑row 2‑seat “bush chair” for cargo utility
  • Optional features:
    • Power‑assist clutch (fuel‑inefficient, but popular for high‑torque applications)
    • Optional turbocharger (adds ~20 hp)
    • Electric all‑wheel drive control (E‑Drive), available in later releases
    • Rear‑wheel drive (RWD) variants for enthusiasts wanting bare‑bone control

Understanding Land Rover Defender depreciation

Buying a used Land Rover Defender opens up opportunities for great value, but it’s wise to understand how its value changes over time. Typical depreciation curves for iconic off‑road vehicles look something like this: