If the new Defender has too much technology for you, this restomod might be perfect
April 7, 2025 at 21:41
- Legacy Overland fully rebuilt a 1987 Land Rover Defender with modern upgrades throughout.
- The rusted chassis was restored using new body panels and Mooreland Gray Blue paint.
- Modern touches include heated leather seats, Apple CarPlay, and updated suspension parts.
The Land Rover Defender has come a long way from its bare-bones, mud-plugging roots, but not everyone’s thrilled about that. To be clear, the current Land Rover Defender is an excellent vehicle. It delivers the on-road comfort and refinement of a luxury SUV, with plenty of off-road capability to back it up. But it lacks the rugged, utilitarian charm that defined the original. It’s no surprise, then, that restomods of classic Defenders have surged in popularity.
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Among the companies breathing new life into these boxy legends, Legacy Overland is one of the most prominent. Their latest build is a 1987 Defender 110, and while it may have started life as a rusted-out shell, it’s now arguably cooler than anything rolling out of a Land Rover showroom today.
When it arrived at the restomodders facility, it was covered in rust, and had to be completely disassembled. The chassis has been completely rebuilt, and it features all-new body panels. It’s essentially a brand-new vehicle and is finished in Mooreland Gray Blue metallic, which suits it perfectly.
Rebuilt From the Ground Up
As part of the transformation, Legacy rebuilt the Land Rover 300 TDI diesel engine and the ZF four-speed automatic transmission. The front and rear differentials have also been redone and a new set of 18-inch wheels bolted on, clad in BF Goodrich all-terrain tires. All-new suspension components have also been installed, as have modern-day brakes.
There’s no mistaking the interior of this Defender from an original one either. It features new heated front seats and a new rear bench seat. The dashboard, center console, and door panels are also now trimmed in black leather and an aftermarket audio system has been added alongside a double-din Sony system with Apple CarPlay. The Land Rover also rocks a new steering wheel, bright red gauges, and new switchgear.
Modern-day off-roaders are more advanced than ever, leaving the factory with trick features and advanced technologies that make conquering the toughest terrain easy. However, one of the most enjoyable things about off-roading is doing things for yourself, like learning how to properly control throttle, braking, and steering inputs across tough terrain.
This Defender strikes that rare balance. It keeps the analog experience alive while giving you just enough modern convenience to enjoy the ride. And really, what more could you ask from a classic 4×4?
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