Far too often, these companies that specialize in custom resto-modded Land Rover Defenders take things too far. The wheels are tacky. Inside, the cabin is overwrought. And the overall simplicity that is a Defender is quickly ruined. Now, I’m not against a resto-modded vehicle. In fact, when done well, I appreciate them. And this is a perfect example of that idea… the Heritage Customs-designed Defender you see here.
The bumpers, side steps, and wheels all suit the vehicle well. As do the large mudguards and chunky tires. And then you get to the color of the thing, and it all works oh-so-well. You have what Heritage Customs is calling a matte Moon Dust paint color paired with black accents and the result is a vehicle that stands out yet is not in your face about it.
This 1985 Land Rover Defender 90 V8 looks suited for both fancy parking out front of a high-end restaurant and ripping down dusty trails with ease. And that’s what I love about the old Defender. It pulls off both looks quite well, and this one does that too.
The only things I’d personally change were it my commission would be the front grille, the choice of tire, and the materials used on the seats and door panels. I’d simplify that grille a bit and ditch the badge. It doesn’t need that extra upper snout grille above it. As for the seats, I’d prefer a high-end cloth to the Alcantara/suede used. But I do love that wood treatment in the rear area. The tires would be KO2s because of course. And one last thing would be to try and use this paint as a base level but tint it towards a more green tone if possible. I do like this paint here, but were it my own truck I’d want it to be more green.
But as it sits, this is one very cool Defender and I’m happy to see the custom shops moving away from the dumb wheels on low-profile tires and extra over the top touches. Nice work here from Heritage Customs.
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