Classic Land Rover Defender Has GM Firepower, Costs New Bentley Bentayga Money

Based in Connecticut, this lesser-known tuner has left its mark on another old Land Rover Defender. Only there's nothing old about this one, as everything was taken care of during restoration. The shininess is there, albeit with a rugged appeal that suits the 4x4's nature perfectly.

Finished in blue and fitted with a tan ragtop, this Defender Mk2 rides on classic 16-inch wheels that were wrapped in BFGoodrich K02 all-terrain tires. It also has corrosion protection, a trick suspension that makes it a bit more comfortable without ruining its off-roading credentials, tuned steering, a new exhaust system, a gas tank, modern brakes, etc.

The latter comprises brake discs on all four corners with slotted rotors at the front, and they were a necessary asset to keep the power in check, as it hides a GM motor under the hood. The 6.2-liter V8 is said to kick out 650 horsepower (659 ps/485 kW), and an eight-speed automatic transmission and the original heavy-duty transfer case back it up.

It is pure 4x4 exoticness when it comes to the cockpit, which was completely reupholstered. It has custom seats, door cards, and a few other features, complete with leather and cloth upholstery. The Sony head unit, complete with extra speakers and all the necessary auxiliaries, provides an audiophile experience should the occupants would not want to listen to the roaring V8.

The Blackbridge Motors Defender 110 Mark II is one special piece of machinery capable of taking those inside on a long trip around the world, assuming nothing breaks down, of course. It ticks all the major boxes when it comes to restomods, and it is a dream build sprinkled with a great lump, which makes us wonder why we don't see more similar rides.

But the devil is always in the details, and in this instance, the asking price. You see, all classic Defender restomods (and not only) tend to cost more than the proverbial arm and leg, to the point where they're usually valued at several hundred thousand dollars. This one is no exception to the rule, as whoever buys it needs to be loaded.

Toward the end of the press release, Blackbridge Motors reveals the asking price, which is $269,500. Actually, make that the starting price. The company encourages those who want a similar (or perhaps identical) build to get in touch with them and discuss the details. But if money were no concern, would you blow over a quarter of a million bucks on an old Defender? Keep in mind that this is brand-new Bentley Bentayga territory.