"The original Land Rover Series began production in Solihull in 1948 and until its decades-long production run ended in 2016, more than two million Defenders were produced, becoming a British automotive icon. Since production ceased, the revered model has been in increased demand from both collectors and those willing to use this tough, utilitarian vehicle in the way it was designed for. It was only in 1989, following the introduction of the all-new Land Rover Discovery, that the Defender received its own name. This was not only a marketing exercise; the new Defender received a raft of upgrades, along with a new turbo diesel engine, which brought useful increases in power, torque, and fuel economy when compared with the old, normally aspirated diesel it was based on. Often boasting large ‘Defender’ logos, the Land Rover went through a continuous process of development, gaining disc brakes and power-assisted steering as standard during the 1990s, together with a host of other improvements.
Originally registered on 1st August 1988 this is no ordinary Land Rover. This Defender has had a nut and bolt restoration in every sense of the word. Restomod is probably the best way to describe this Double cab pick-up as it has been restored to a magnificent standard and has had a few modifications carried out along the way. After purchasing the vehicle, the vendor stripped it back to nothing, this involved removing the body, engine, gearbox and axles. The chassis showed signs of corrosion so a new galvanised one was fitted, a new bulkhead was fitted at the same time. The engine was rebuilt by respected V8 engine rebuilder John Eales, the capacity was increased to 4.6 litres and output increased to a more than adequate 260 BHP. The transfer gearbox was rebuilt as were the differentials. The brakes were overhauled and upgraded as was the suspension, with anti-roll bars fitted front and rear. The bodywork was taken care of and the car has been repainted to a magnificent standard in Aintree Green. Originally a standard 110, the rear has been cut-off to make it a Double cab pick-up, strength was added by fitting a Land Rover roll-bar. The interior has been trimmed in tan leather and again this has been carried out to an exemplary standard, even the dashboard has been trimmed in leather. The loadspace area has been fitted with four inward facing seats making this effectively a ten-seater Land Rover. All of the ancillaries have been replaced, wheels, tyres, rear soft top, badges, in addition to central locking and rear camera. To build such a vehicle in this manner and to this standard would be in excess of £100,000. The quality of this outstanding vehicle has to be seen to be appreciated, viewing is highly recommended. Classic Defenders are becoming increasingly rare and popular, this 35 year old vehicle is in better condition than when it originally left Lode Lane.
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