L316 (1990 to 2016)

The Land Rover Defender L316, manufactured globally from 1990 to 2016, is the definitive evolution of the iconic British workhorse, officially adopting the "Defender" name to distinguish itself from the then-new Discovery. While it retained the rugged live-axle and coil-spring architecture of its predecessors, the L316 introduced more refined diesel technology—spanning the mechanical 200Tdi and 300Tdi to the electronic Td5 and final Puma engines—while maintaining the classic 90, 110, and 130 wheelbase configurations. In the 2026 Australian market, the L316 has transitioned from a utilitarian tool into a high-value "modern classic" investment, with desirability reaching an all-time high for final-year 2015–2016 Heritage and Adventure editions. The buyer pool in 2026 is increasingly dominated by high-net-worth collectors and bespoke restorers who target the L316 as a base for premium "restomod" builds, alongside off-road traditionalists who reject the electronic complexity of the newer L663. Locally, liquidity is exceptionally strong for the 110 Station Wagon, as 2026 buyers prioritise original, low-kilometre examples with documented service history, often paying significant premiums for vehicles that have avoided heavy mining or agricultural use.

The Land Rover Defender L316, manufactured globally from 1990 to 2016, is the definitive evolution of the iconic British workhorse, officially adopting the "Defender" name to distinguish itself from the then-new Discovery. While it retained the rugged live-axle and coil-spring architecture of its predecessors, the L316 introduced more refined diesel technology—spanning the mechanical 200Tdi and 300Tdi to the electronic Td5 and final Puma engines—while maintaining the classic 90, 110, and 130 whe… Read more