2012 Land Rover Defender Bowler Rally Challenge (1 of 15)

Highlights 

• 1 of just 15 Bowler Rally Challenge Edition models 

• Extensively and professionally modified by Bowler Motorsport

• Low mileage

• Exmoor trim bucket seats

• A rip-snorting take on the Land Rover Defender 90

Overview

The good old British Land Rover has been a stalwart of the off-road scene since its inception way back in 1947. Simple, rugged and built to last, the original Land Rover may have been inspired by the Willys Jeep that proved itself so admirably during World War Two, but it has since become a legend in its own right.

The Defender, introduced in '83, continued that legacy. Still inherently robust and versatile it was a huge step forward for Land Rover and paved the way for future off-roaders, what with its coil spring suspension and permanent four-wheel drive. Eminently usable it would prove itself again and again in every corner of the world.

One of the many great things about the Defender though is its customisability. From full-on post-apocalypse builds to more refined and luxurious takes on the classic 4X4, people have been modifying these cars for generations, with one such company – Bowler – going the extra mile and creating full blown off-road racing versions.

And this is one of them -  a 2012 Land Rover Defender 90 2.2TDCi XS Bowler Rally Challenge Edition. Back in 2013, Bowler Motorsport decided to create the Bowler Rally Challenge whereupon aspiring rally drivers could race in a one-make series, and it was extremely successful, so much so that it still exists today. Re-engineered by Bowler, the company reckons 15 were produced in total and this is number 009 that underwent conversion from a standard 90 XS in 2014.

Finished in Nardo Grey with a black roof and with a spec list as long as your leg (and then some) it presents terrifically throughout and comes laden with decent history and a fresh service to boot. Overall it's a fantastic Bowler Defender that the vendor tells us is “a revelation if you’re used to standard ones.” 

History and documentation

• 2012 model year

• 1 of 15 professionally converted by Bowler Motorsport in 2014

• Healthy service record

• Looked after by Land Rover specialists MH 4x4

• Last serviced 16/06/25

• Full book pack

• V5C present and correct

• Two keys

• MOT until 21/01/2026

• First registered 30/03/2012

• HPI clear

• 39,481 miles

Interior

• In great order and apparently free from damage or excessive wear 

• Full internal MSA-approved roll cage

• New Exmoor trim bucket seats (Bowler race seats included)

• Terratrip mount

• Momo suede steering wheel

• Intercom system 

• Fully plumbed in fire extinguisher system

• CB radio

• Air conditioning plus winter pack, including heated front screen

• Remote alarm locking

• Electric front windows

• Uprated Kenwood stereo system

• Full size matching spare wheel and tyre

Exterior

• Wrapped in Nardo Grey by Yiannimize (originally Rimini Red metallic)

• Appears to be in great all round condition

• Bowler race bumper and steering guard

• Bowler 18” wheels look to be in decent shape

• 265/65 R18 BF Goodrich tyres 

• Bowler race side rails 

• Rally mudflap kit 

• Bowler bonnet lettering 

• LED light kit 

• Appears rust-free and solid underneath

• Tow bar with electric feed

Mechanical

• Bowler 170bhp conversion 

• Revised intercooler and exhaust system 

• Bowler quick shift 

• Bowler fast road suspension kit 

• Bowler big brake kit 

• New clutch and flywheel fitted Nov 2021

• The vendor informs us the car starts and drives with no issues

Summary

This is obviously not your run of the mill Defender – this is what happens when you turn the dial up to 11, and it's magnificent. The Defender is already an accomplished machine but this rare Bowler Rally Challenge Edition is simply next level and ready to take on whatever you choose to throw at it.

Yes it's heavily modified but all of its upgrades haven't sullied any of the car's comfort or drive-ability, so if you want a Defender that a) stands out from the crowd and b) is even more capable than the original 90 then this is most definitely the four-by-four for you. 

To arrange a viewing, click the 'Book Viewing' button located under the 'Place Bid' button. Viewings can be booked up until the day before the auction ends, after which the option will change to 'Contact Seller' for further enquiries. This seller is located in Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire.