Red rover

Red Rover is a 1997 Land Rover Defender 110, CSW (county station wagon) This vehicle was produced by Land Rover as an 11 seat utility vehicle. Fitted with its original 300TDI 2500cc 4 cylinder turbo diesel engine producing 113bhp standard. Permanent 4WD with an R380 5 speed manual transmission. Fitted as standard with hi/lo range LT230 transfer box that includes centre diff lock. These features helped push the defender range of vehicles to the top of the pile of extreme utility vehicles. 

Red Rover has been owned personally by our director for the past two years. An active member of the ranks and being used daily for all manner of shop duties and personal adventures. Red has traveled across the UK on many camping trips and recently visited the Republic of Ireland. Many thousands of happy miles have passed during our ownership. 

It got to the point that the decision was made to partially restore Red with a new model look. With a plethora of modernisation we got to the finished vehicle you see above. 

Red is an outstanding example of a well-cared-for Defender. Mechanically strong and with remarkably little corrosion, this vehicle spent the last 19 years with a single devoted owner who spared no expense in its upkeep. That dedication is evident throughout—from the condition of the chassis to the way it drives today.

The chassis remains completely original, with no welding repairs ever carried out or required, and the vehicle has recently undergone a major mechanical overhaul to address known weak points and future-proof it for years of dependable use.

• New cylinder head and gasket (including all associated seals, gaskets, and hardware)
• New cam belt & water pump kit
• New radiator and intercooler pack
• New auxiliary belt
• New swivel seals
• New 2" heavy-duty lift springs
• New +2" HD shock absorbers (all round)
• New brake pads (all round)
• Five brand new BF Goodrich KM2 All-Terrain tyres (285/75/16)
• Full engine service using genuine filters and premium-grade oil
• New fluids throughout: coolant, PAS fluid, gear oil, transfer case oil (OEM spec), and diff oil
• New lock and barrel set
• Five brand new doors
• New windscreen and seal
• New door felt kits
• New sunroof seal
• New heavy-duty steering bars

Red has completed our comprehensive 150-point in-house quality control check, a process we’ve developed to identify any current or likely near-future issues. During this inspection, a number of bushes, seals, gaskets, and fasteners were proactively replaced to ensure reliability.

This thorough process gives the new owner complete peace of mind—knowing that Red is not just mechanically sound, but ready to be enjoyed on or off the road from day one.

During the modernisation of red we added the following parts:

• XS Grille set
• XS side and top wing vents
• XS gloss mirrors 
• Crystal headlights 
• Full LED light conversion 
• Masai swing away wheel carrier 
• Contrast black arches and roof 
• 2" suspension lift with HD shock absorbers and springs 
• 285/75/16 BF Goodrich KM2 All terrain tyres 
• HD modular imitation bead lock wheels
• Panoramic glass kit dark tint 
• Privacy glass on the rear half 
• Checker plate protection on wing tops 
• Full respray in Range Rover Chilli red 

Red has a current specification of:

• 4 speaker audio system 
• Power assisted steering 
• Heated rear window
• 11 seat interior 
• Cloth upholstery 
• 11 seat belts 
• Centre cubby box
• Wood steering wheel 
• Full Exmoor trim black carpet set 
• Front rubber floor mats 
• Stainless steel door threshers x5 
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To complement Red’s mechanical reliability, we’ve also introduced a series of carefully selected performance upgrades. The engine has been modernised using a Fourby boost pin and diaphragm plate setup, paired with a boost controller and our in-house tuning procedure. These modifications have brought the 300TDi to life, delivering noticeably improved throttle response and drivability.

We estimate the engine is now producing around 145bhp, all while remaining comfortably within safe operating parameters. It’s about as smooth, responsive, and refined as a 300TDi can get—without compromising long-term durability.

We’re currently commissioning a bespoke interior to bring style and comfort in line with Red’s upgraded performance. This includes:

• Black Nappa leather upholstery with white Bentley diamond stitching
• Alcantara-trimmed roof lining for a refined, modern feel
• Colour-matched black internal panels for a cohesive aesthetic throughout

This interior will blend traditional Defender utility with premium materials, offering a driving experience that feels just as good as it performs.

At this stage a range of optional extras are available and can be tailored into the build prior to deliver. These items include but are not limited to the following:

• Heated seats
• Heated windscreen 
• Auxiliary battery with split charge 
• Central locking 
• Electric windows 
• Roof rack and access ladder 
• Expedition roof tent and awning by Ventura tents 
• upgraded audio equipment 
• Air suspension and much more. 

Have you seen something you like in the wealth of parts available? If so get in touch to explore options on supply and fitting. 

Below is a curated selection of images documenting Red’s life, condition, and transformation throughout our ownership and restoration process. We believe in full transparency—so you’ll find photos of the good, the bad, and everything in between.

When it came to the bodywork, we held nothing back. We never use body filler to conceal imperfections. Instead, any panel that didn’t meet our exacting standards was entirely replaced during the coachbuilding stage. This ensures Red’s body is as solid and true as the day it left the factory—built to last, not just to look good.