The 1999 Land Rover Defender 130 Td5 Hi-Cap arrives with a story of refurbishment and endurance. This truck, restored in Albania in 2020, was later imported to the US in 2024. The focus keyphrase 1999 Land Rover Defender 130 Td5 Hi-Cap reflects its distinctive identity.
Refurbishment and Exterior Details
Originally finished in Chawton White, the Defender was stripped and repainted green. Checker-plate trim, brush guard, snorkel, and roof rack add utility. A Warn winch, LED headlights, and auxiliary lights enhance capability. Custom badges and Optimill hardware provide subtle modern touches.
Suspension and Wheels
The truck rides on 16-inch beadlock wheels with 35-inch Maxxis Trepador tires. A 2-inch Old Man Emu lift kit and Alive Tuning rear anti-roll bar improve stance and handling. Braking is managed by discs at each corner. The power steering fluid was flushed in January 2025.
Interior Overhaul
Inside, brown leather covers replacement seats, console, and door panels. A microsuede headliner and upholstered dash elevate refinement. A Sony touchscreen head unit, Alpine speakers, and USB ports modernize connectivity. Air conditioning from Ministry of Defender adds comfort, despite noted condensation issues.
Cabin Features and Details
The MOMO steering wheel fronts a 200-km/h speedometer and auxiliary gauges. The odometer shows 203k kilometers, with 5k miles added under current ownership. Storage compartments and a kill switch highlight practical upgrades. Minor flaws include broken heater controls and cracked speaker covers.
Engine and Mechanical Upgrades
Power comes from a 2.5-liter Td5 turbodiesel inline-five. Alive Tuning modifications include a catless downpipe, intercooler, and EGR bypass kit. Engine management software enhances performance. Recent service includes an oil change in August 2025 and fuel regulator replacement in December 2025.
Transmission and Drivetrain
A five-speed manual transmission pairs with a dual-range transfer case. A locking center differential supports off-road traction. The transfer case was serviced in January 2025. The seller notes a leak from the rear differential, a detail worth attention for future maintenance.
Power and Performance
The Td5 engine delivers reliable torque and efficiency. Combined with the manual gearbox and lifted suspension, the Defender offers confident control. Its beadlock wheels and rugged upgrades emphasize durability. This configuration ensures capability across varied terrain while maintaining classic Defender character.
Documentation and History
The British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate confirms a build date of January 21, 1999. Supporting documents include spare parts, a clean Carfax report, and a Texas title. The truck’s journey from Albania to the US underscores its resilience and appeal.
Summary
The 1999 Land Rover Defender 130 Td5 Hi-Cap blends restoration with practical upgrades. With its turbodiesel engine, manual transmission, and rugged enhancements, it remains a capable and distinctive truck. This example highlights how thoughtful refurbishment can preserve heritage while adding modern utility.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
