The Land Rover Defender needs no introduction. This stalwart of British motoring history has been utilized by farmers, militaries, tradesmen, and adventure seekers around the globe since its debut in 1983.

This particular example is the most rare variant, a left-hand drive Defender 130, and was delivered new to Spain, where it lived a full life as a utility runabout before being discovered by Defender restoration expert (and vintage racing extraordinaire) Mark Daniell and his firm, Manor House Automobiles, of Warwickshire.

At the hands of Manor House, the vehicle was completely taken apart to the smallest fastener, and work began on a comprehensive restoration to a very high standard. Work included a full mechanical rebuild or replacement of every major component including the 200Tdi engine and gearbox, axles, steering system, and more.

At the time of restoration, a full upgrade to James Bond “Spectre” specification was carried out, which included the fitting of 37” Maxxis tires, with widened wheel arches and appropriate suspension modifications to suit. The rolling stock is accentuated by a full length roll cage to FIA spec by UK firm Safety Devices, which incorporates a roof rack and LED spot lamps.

Furthering the Spectre presentation is the stunning high gloss paintwork in Land Rover’s Java Black, along with a complete luxury interior by Defender trim shop Exmoor Trim.

Many Land Rover Defender “restorations” are skin-deep refreshes of tired and worn out old trucks and a hopeful buyer can quickly become disenchanted with their purchase as the underlying quality of the vehicle comes to light. That is not the case here, where we have a verified nut and bolt restoration (with hundreds of photos documenting as such) and can attest that this is indeed all it appears to be.

And, it has covered just 348km since completion.

Possibly the “ultimate” presentation of the iconic Defender, this Spectre 130 makes a statement everywhere it goes.