4/9/20 15/75 Land Rover Defender 90

Matchbox has had a long history with Land Rover considering both have British roots and the Defender is the most-replicated model in the Land Rover line for Matchbox, so this Defender 90 is one of them and still in use today.  This version features a yellow color with black plastic roof; the tall arch spoke wheels still in use as is the metal base with working suspension, trailer hitch in bumper-less rear, and a front brush guard hiding the round headlights and grille.  Introduced in 1988 first in blue I remember this casting and since the Defender was not on sale in the U.S. I thought it was a DJ5 postal Jeep!  It handles quite well and very flexible off-road with solid front and rear axles and three differentials.  The interior is basic on amenities and layout, though it offers seating for six with rear benches mounted to sides.  Despite the removal of the metal base, working suspension and the plastic roof with metal the 90 is still in use today sitting alongside versions like the 110 Defender and the concept SVX.

Specifications:

· Engine: 2.5L turbodiesel I-4, 90 hp.

· Transmission: 5-speed manual

· 0-60 mph: 13.0 sec. est.

· Real vehicle price: $20,000 est. 1989

Rating:  4.5 out of 5 stars