A man who bought more than 200 Land Rover defenders less than ten years ago is now make profit on them, worth hundreds of thousands of pounds.
What might have been viewed as an odd or risky investment in 2015 could end up making him a lot of money.
Charles Fawcett is the founder and owner of Twisted, a British automotive factory that takes older Land Rover Defenders in, modifying them and selling them as customs to customers who want a unique ride.
Fawcett bought 200 Land Rover Defenders in 2015. (Twisted)
He made the bulk buy just before they ceased production on the iconic model in 2015, and it turns out that people are willing to spend up to £220,000 on just one of these custom-made vehicles.
The 4x4s are modified specifically to fit the particular, bespoke criteria for the company’s clients, as Fawcett and Twisted are working their way through the ones they have sitting in storage.
They aren’t particularly weathered either, with all of the vehicles up for sale having less than 30 miles on the clock – they’re pretty much brand new.
They’re all based on the XS Spec, which was the top level of Land Rover Defender at the time, and Charles went right to the source when deciding to purchase them.
The custom models are sold on their website. (Twisted)
He told The Sun: “I went to the Defender production line at Solihull to meet the men and women building the vehicles.
“These sixteen 110s were hand-picked for their chassis numbers and build dates.
“They were all registered in 2016 – after production ceased – identifying them among the last off the line and, arguably, more collectable.
“They’re special, and when Twisted, each one is the only one.
“Hence the limited run is called One of One.”
If you wanted to pick up one of these back in 2015, it would have set you back somewhere around £35,000, but these 16 cars aren’t exactly your run of the mill getabouts.
There’s a choice of engine – petrol or diesel – with upgraded brakes, suspension, wheels, tyres, and custom LED lighting.
There’s also a decent infotainment system, soundproofing, and leather, which is the sort of comfort that you might not have expected from the original Defenders.
You can choose one of the pre-designed vehicles, or make your own. (Twisted)
According to Charles, you can pretty much have them in whatever way you like, as long as it is possible.
He continued: “All of the 16 will be Twisted, but exactly how depends on the lifestyle and tastes of the customer.
“The Twisted way isn’t to tell people what their Defender should be; it’s to work with them to create a Defender that’s the best fit for them.”
Just now, you can buy one for £135,000 plus VAT for the diesel versions and £184,000 plus VAT for the petrol models, which are more powerful.
If you want one created custom for you, you can order now and get it delivered next year.