We love the new Land Rover Defender here at Gear Patrol, but it’s hard to match the charm of the old one — especially when it's been pored over from the frame up, finished with the finest materials and endowed with far more hands-on love than its designers ever intended.
If you’re looking to build a custom Defender, there are several U.S.-based companies that specialize in importing European vehicles and converting them into your modern dream SUV. (For a substantial price, of course).
Check out the vintage Land Rover Defender brands to know below.
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Arkonik
Arkonik
Arkonik is a British-based company specializing in frame-off (i.e. as complete as they get) restorations of European Defenders for the North American market. They've produced such stunning builds as the SoCal D90 and Switchback 110.
New Mexico-based Heritage Driven offers endless customization options, whether you're looking for a modern-but-classic-looking Defender or a Baja-ready trophy truck.
Chicago-based HHH Heritage specializes in giving Europe-sourced Defenders a "second act," whether that's with a light refresh or a frame-up custom rebuild.
South-Carolina based Himalaya specializes in Defender restorations, whether that's super-powerful heavily modernized versions or traditional builds that are as close to buying a new classic Defender as you can get in the U.S.
Overfinch is a tuner that claims to produce the "ultimate expression" of Land Rovers. They do elaborate and intricate builds of pretty much every Land Rover model — including the classic Defender.
This English-based firm recently expanded to North America, bringing with it impeccably-made custom Defenders powered by both GM V8s and electric motors.
