About
Narrative by the owner:
“
The restoration was carried out over 6 months by a very talented engineer and Land Rover enthusiast Daniel Hawke. He’s the super geek of all things LR and it was a fun and pleasurable experience seeing it all come together - consulting on the build and choosing the small details.
I was constantly astonished how nothing was too much trouble and everything could be made to work together.
The workmanship is superb, it looks and drives every bit as good now as it did when it was delivered 2023 primarily because it’s done less than 1000 miles since.
I would go so far as to say everyone who worked on it was a perfectionist from Daniel, to his mechanic, welder and the painters.
Daniel has subsequently gone on to build an acclaimed specialist restoration business in Kent and has maintained the car for the past 2 years. He tells me there’s a 12mth wait for him to build a car now.
“
A factory v8 car subtly improved and modernised with an upgraded interior and being petrol - the added benefit of ULEZ compliant !
Auto defenders are very rare, only 500 ever made by the factory and all for the US market. The conversion is to an extremely good standard using genuine Land Rover parts and the same centre tunnel as a factory car. Modern auto shifter with full Hi-Lo and diff lock functionality retained.
Fully documented restoration by a specialist with 100+ photos. This was a restoration not a rebuild so the chassis, bulkhead and other key parts were sandblasted bare metal, repaired as needed before paint (all photographed). Suspension and brakes renewed, doors fully overhauled with new hinges. All new nuts bolts and seals fitted throughout. New windscreen. New door handles and locks. All new lights and finished with the twist of modern ‘bulge’ bonnet.
Engine refreshed including efi system overhaul and auto gearbox serviced prior to fitment. Full stainless exhaust system.
Setup and geared for 100+mph top speed, very relaxed drive at 70.
The body was fully stripped, dismantled and painted Lancia Graphite Grey panel by panel to a very high standard - the condition 2 years on is testament to the standard of work.
Overall the finish is superb, and really must be seen to be appreciated. The drive - sublime. Smooth and precise, a beautiful v8 soundtrack and sharp brakes.
Custom diamond stitch seats throughout with matching dash trim. Comfortable upgraded seats for 6, with folding twin ‘jump seats’ in the rear.
Push-button start, electric windows and modern touch screen radio fitted to upgraded dash. USB charger and LED lighting.
Upgraded oversized black soft top / roll frame with premium mohair black roof.
Gloss black “Sawtooth” alloy wheels, matching gloss black wheel nuts and fully upgraded brakes throughout.
Tow bar and electrics to rear step. Matching side steps.
Serviced annually and covered only 1200 miles since its restoration/build.
