2014 LAND ROVER DEFENDER

The relationship between Land Rover and Bowler stretches back decades, with the Derbyshire-based engineering company earning its reputation building some of the fastest and most capable competition Land Rovers around. Applying that expertise to the Defender created something considerably more serious than a cosmetically modified 4x4, and this particular 90 is understood to be one of the first ten factory-built Bowler Defenders.

Built new by Bowler in 2014 and finished in Fuji White, it received an estimated £18,000 of additional equipment and modifications from the outset. Its 2.2-litre TDCi was treated to Bowler's Stage 2 package, incorporating an ECU remap, uprated turbo, larger intercooler and 3-inch exhaust system, increasing output to around 180bhp and over 400lb/ft torque. A Bowler big brake conversion and lower, stiffer suspension accompanied the additional performance, whilst Salisbury axles, ARB locking front and rear differentials and an onboard air compressor substantially increased its capability.

Further Bowler equipment included lightweight 18-inch alloy wheels, an internal and external roll cage welded to the chassis, lightweight front bumper, side sill protection, axle and differential guards, a Momo steering wheel, and Bowler gear levers and decals, making this a properly developed Bowler from new, rather than a standard Defender subsequently converted.

Our vendor acquired the car in 2024 with 34,542 miles showing and subsequently entrusted it to AOC Automotive for an extensive programme of further development. The drivetrain was strengthened with an uprated LOF clutch, Ashcroft output shaft and one-piece rear half shafts, ensuring the supporting mechanicals were suitably matched to the additional performance.

Externally, a Warn Zeon 8S winch was incorporated within a D44 front bumper, modified to neatly accommodate integrated Lazer Triple-R 750 spotlights. A roof rack with Lazer Linear 42 lighting, gloss black wheel arches and grille, panoramic rear windows and NAS rear step further developed the exterior whilst retaining the Defender's purposeful character.

AOC's work continued inside, with genuine black Land Rover Defender Premium heated seats fitted to replace the Corbeau bucket seats, matching leather dashboard tops and a retrimmed headliner and sun visors to improve the cabin. A heated front windscreen and central locking add everyday comfort, whilst a Double-DIN conversion provides Apple CarPlay, a reversing camera and Pioneer audio.

Now showing just 35,570 miles, barely 1,000 miles more than when purchased in 2024, it has recently been serviced, has a full and thorough service history and associated file, has a clean MOT and is supplied with two sets of keys.

With genuine factory Bowler provenance, extensive AOC refinement and remarkably low mileage, this is a seriously well-developed Defender. Fast, capable and now considerably more comfortable and usable, it represents a rare opportunity to acquire one of the earliest Bowler built Defenders, further improved with no expense spared.