LS3-swapped Land Rover Defender Is an ’80s Marauder
British off-road legend with legendary American power; all the Land Rover goodness without the hassle.
The Land Rover Defender is arguably one of the most iconic and well-known vehicles of all time. With the rugged looks and hardware to match, the Defender was one of the only vehicles that put the money where its mouth was. If you remember the Camel Trophy days, Land Rover didn’t have to try hard to promote the Defender. The truck was so mighty, it was used in military and recreational applications around the world – in some places, they still are! Despite the fact that the Defenders have been technically in production since 1984, vintage Defenders are increasingly hard to find. To be brutally honest, it’s likely due to the fact that they’ve all but rusted into the Earth by now.
BringATrailer doesn’t list what engine this beautifully restored and revamped 1984 Land Rover Defender 110 originally had. If it was the turbo diesel, it would have been much more reliable in comparison to the gasoline engine offered, but… Land Rover does not have a good reputation in regards to their engines. To make sure this Land Rover doesn’t fall victim to the Land Rover plague, Safari HP in Florida swapped the original engine for an LS3.
With the new engine, the Defender finally has the power it rightfully deserves. With up to 436 eager ponies under the hood coupled with a 6L80 six speed automatic transmission and two-speed LT230 transfer case, the 110 is up to any task. Especially when torque ratings are thrown in – the 6.2 LS3 is known to make up to 428 lbs ft. Which is more than any engine offered in a Defender. Ever.
While it would surely upset purists, it’s hard to argue with the fact that the engine choice is numerically much, much better than any original Land Rover engine. Literally any of them. Additionally, parts for original Land Rover engines are increasingly harder to find. So, what we have here is the best of both worlds. A masterfully restored Land Rover Defender, without the nightmare.
Aside from the engine bay, Safari HP didn’t stop there. The interior, which is known for being drab and clearly an afterthought, was also modernized. All seats have been replaced with leather Autobiography Puma seats, which offer both style and welcome comfort. The floor mats are rubber to protect the floors from the impending off-road trips, headliner was replaced with one from a later Defender, and now, air conditioning.
In 1984, the 110 didn’t have power steering. Or power anything for that matter. But now, steering the Defender won’t take up most of your body weight to do. Also, all four brakes are disks, as opposed to drums. Some other stylistic changes include the wheels, roof, doors, grille, and hood. Instead of the traditional boxy look, the body components were replaced with Puma-style parts that fit the era, but offer a modern twist. The wheels, originally 16″, were replaced with 18″ wheels to better compliment the style changes.
The best part of this entire thing? Is the fact that this dream machine is currently set at a price of $65,500. This may seem like a lot, but remember that this is compared to other Defenders in worse shape being priced at $80-100k. It’s an amazing price for such a cool truck. If you happen to be in Florence, Alabama, bidding ends on Feb. 27.
Photos: Bring-a-trailer
Join the LS1Tech forums now!
