This lot will be auctioned via Iconic Auctioneers, The Iconic Sale at the NEC Classic Motor Show 2025 on Saturday the 8th of November, NEC, Birmingham, B40 1NT. A rare interpretation of Britain’s most iconic off-road vehicle, this Land Rover Defender 90 M52-2.8i offers a unique combination of heritage styling and refined performance. Built in very limited numbers for selected markets, it is powered by the BMW 2.8-litre M52 straight-six engine – a smooth, torque-rich unit more commonly associated with performance saloons than utilitarian 4x4s. The result is a Defender that remains resolutely capable off-road while introducing a level of on-road sophistication rarely found in the model’s lineage. The example offered here is a highly regarded build completed by South African specialists MadeYouLook, known for their expertise in M52-powered Defenders. This particular car, titled ‘MYL 007’ by the firm, has been extensively restored and mechanically uprated, with fastidious attention paid to every detail of its construction and finish. The result is a Defender that presents today in superb condition, both cosmetically and mechanically. Finished in white with contrasting black trim, the Defender retains all the purposeful, angular charm of the original model. It sits on 16-inch black steel wheels with BFGoodrich Mud Terrain tyres (265/75 front and rear), which offer both visual presence and proven off-road capability. The wheels are in excellent order with only minimal marks, and the tyres show no signs of cracking or uneven wear. Panel fitment is precise, with straight body lines and consistent gaps throughout. Doors, bonnet and tailgate open and shut cleanly, reflecting the build quality and structural integrity of the restoration. The paint finish is smooth and uniform across all panels, showing only light wear to the base of the kick plates – a minor detail on an otherwise impressively presented vehicle. The black roof covering remains in excellent condition, with tight fitment and no visible damage. All glass, seals and exterior trim present extremely well. The windows and mirrors are free from scratches or chips, while the rubber seals around apertures remain soft and intact. Badging and lighting components are all present and correct, contributing to a finish that is consistent, authentic and robust. Under the bonnet, the BMW M52 2.8-litre engine delivers a level of power and refinement far beyond the Defender’s original specification. Paired with a five-speed manual gearbox, the drivetrain provides smooth acceleration and a relaxed cruising character, without compromising the low-range torque required for serious off-road work. The combination of German engineering and British toughness results in a highly usable and enjoyable all-purpose vehicle. Having undergone a professional rebuild by one of the foremost names in this niche, and showing signs of careful ownership since, this Defender 90 M52-2.8i represents a rare opportunity. It retains all the utilitarian charm and rugged presence that make the Defender a global icon, while offering a driving experience that is far more refined than most examples of the era. Whether as a weekend adventurer, collector’s piece or continent-crossing overlander, it is a uniquely compelling proposition for the discerning enthusiast.