When you compare a classic Land Rover Defender to the current models available, it's obvious that the two are not the same. While the modern rendition is stylish and capable of all the latest tech and convenience, it lacks the original Defenders' iconic look, feel, and character. With a rebuilt Defender, you get the best of both worlds - modern technology and classic design. So, what drives a person to want to buy a restored Land Rover Defender rather than a new one?

Benefits of Owning a Classic Car

While restoring and caring for a vintage automobile is hard work and takes dedication, owning a classic Land Rover Defender does have its perks. These classic vehicles have character and a presence that stands out no matter where you go. The nostalgia alone is worth the investment. Just like fine art, classic autos are meant to be admired and can draw a hefty price tag.

Style

The biggest perk to owning an iconic restored vehicle is style. These vintage Defenders have a style all their own; seeing one parked in front of a local business is like looking into the past. There are many clubs around the globe for classic car owners to show off their builds and restorations. Being part of an exclusive club is another great advantage to being a classic car owner, rubbing elbows with other enthusiasts, including some celebrities.

The Ultimate Driving Experience

Another perk is the driving experience. Classic cars lack the modern conveniences we have come to expect from modern vehicles, like connectivity features, airbags, and cruise control. Driving a classic Defender is a unique experience, with no modern safety features and no sound-deadening technology to reduce noise levels. Steering was usually challenging and sometimes sloppy, and the gears grinding as you manually shift was annoying, but this is what driving was like back in the day. The experience was raw and organic.

Restoration Defender

Making a statement is the number one reason people choose to restore a classic vehicle rather than buy a new one, to stand out in the crowd and be recognized. Of all the classic British vehicles, the iconic Land Rover Defender stands alone.

The Perfect Platform for Modifications

With its spartan amenities and a total lack of convenience and comfort features, the vintage Defender was rugged and tough in its day but not much fun to drive. These same characteristics make the Defender a perfect platform for a custom retrofit with modern features. Taking the classic Defender and turning it into a fun-driving, powerful all-wheel drive showpiece of epic proportion makes it even better than the new models.

Building a One-of-a-Kind Defender

Having your Defender restored with ECD Design allows you to have it built to your exact specifications. The client chooses the powertrain, paint scheme, interior features, and more, creating a Defender that is genuinely one of a kind. Anyone can buy a new Defender, but you’re not just anyone.

The ECD Defender Restoration

While Land Rover has new Defender models available, rebuilding a classic from the ground up allows you to customize your Defender precisely the way you want it. You can blend the vintage design with modern concepts and innovations, creating a one-of-a-kind Defender that is all you.

Blending Old and New

A restored Defender from ECD Design can be built back to its original condition or blended with modern technology, powertrains, safety, and infotainment systems. ECD has built its reputation on restoring and retrofitting these iconic British off-road vehicles with meticulous detail and uncompromising craftsmanship. ECD gives you options, including original color schemes, leather seating materials, modern luxuries, infotainment, and safety features.

Better Powertrain Options

The current run of modern Land Rover Defenders comes equipped with a 3.0-liter engine that produces 296 horsepower. An ECD Defender restoration lets you choose the powerplant you want, with engine options ranging from 400 to 600 horsepower. Your custom Defender can be outfitted with a Chevy LS3 engine, a Cummins diesel powerplant, or even an all-electric Tesla Platform.

Your ECD Defender restoration can give you modern comfort and technology features, including cruise control, digital display touchscreens, and all the smartphone connectivity you would expect on a brand-new car with the vintage feel of the original design.