- Unlike many firms, Kingsley has kept the iconic Defender’s mechanics mostly true to its roots.
- Standard models come with an upgraded version of the original Land Rover engine.
- Bespoke commissions start at £140,000 (~$184,000), excluding the cost of the donor vehicle.
Buying a restored and modified classic car usually costs an arm and a leg, but the growing popularity of restomods is preventing many old cars from languishing in garages or being scrapped entirely, keeping them on the roads for longer. That’s great news for enthusiasts like ourselves and British-based firm Kingsley Re-Engineered is doing its part to keep the original Land Rover Defender alive and well.
The company has been working on old-school Land Rovers for two decades and at Salon Prive, has unveiled its new stand-alone series of restored Defenders, available in D90 and D110 configurations. Each creation is based on an original model that is stripped back to its bare chassis before the long process of updating it starts.
Read: Land Rover Brings Back Classic Defender V8 With A Modern Twist
Standard models from Kingsley feature an overhauled version of the original Land Rover engine and a fully rebuilt transmission. By comparison, most other restomod Defenders we’ve seen scrap the original powertrain favor of something more modern, so those who want to retain the off-roader’s character would be wise to look into the firm’s offerings. Buyers who do want something a little newer can opt for Kingsley’s own 4.2-liter V8 with 220 hp and 265 lb-ft (360 Nm), or even an option of Chevrolet LS3 and LT1 V8s.
Regardless of the engine and transmission combination, all models are fitted with electronically controlled active damping and new brakes with enlarged front calipers. An alloy radiator is also installed alongside electric cooling fans. Kingsley has also manufactured 18-inch wheels for the Land Rover, clad in all-terrain BFGoodrich tires.
Several interior improvements have been made, such as the inclusion of wireless Apple CarPlay. Customers can choose from a huge array of interior options, including heated seats, tire pressure monitoring systems, and several different roof choices. Kingsley can refurbish the original trim of any Defender or reupholster it with Nappa leather and Alcantara accents.
Interested buyers will need to cough up at least £140,000 (~$184,000) for a bespoke commission from Kingsley, and that excludes the price of the donor Defender.
