2001 Land Rover 90 3.5-Litre V8 Beach Car

Few vehicles command the same level of respect and affection as the Land Rover Defender. Originally conceived as a post-war agricultural workhorse, the Defender evolved into a global icon - revered for its go-anywhere toughness, minimalist design and unmatched versatility. From African safaris to Alpine expeditions and increasingly as a canvas for bespoke builds, the Defender remains one of the most enduring and adaptable 4x4s ever.

This example, a 2001 short-wheelbase 90 Pick-Up, has been transformed into the ultimate beach cruiser by Land Rover specialists H X Motors Ltd of Maidstone, Kent. Having covered some 7,744 miles since its metamorphosis in 2021 it remains in very good condition throughout with few signs of general wear and tear.

The magicians at HXM stripped the donor Td5 down to its component parts. The original chassis frame was surprisingly rust-free, so it was blasted back to bare metal, repaired where necessary, re-coated and then the build commenced. The idea was to utilise a Rover V8 and a suitable 3.5-Litre unit was acquired, fully rebuilt, topped with an Edelbrock carburettor and Pro-Flo chromed filter and mated to a smooth Land Rover ZF automatic gearbox.

The suspension was all renewed and features Super GAZ shocks, plus a 2” lift all round. The braking system was completely replaced and for extra safety on the sand a front Safety Devices Roll Cage in matt black was fitted. The bodywork was restored where possible and new panels fitted elsewhere - all finished in a lovely shade of pastel blue and sitting on gloss black ‘sawtooth’ alloys, it really looks the part. An Exmoor Trim full length canvas soft top keeps the sun off and the open rear sided configuration with roll-up plastic windows offers open-air freedom and summer adventures!

The interior has been pleasingly customised with upgraded high-back seats in tan leather, updated dashboard incorporating a Kenwood touch screen stereo, black door cards, rubber matting in the cab and a stunning polished plank-lined rear tub.

This one-off build offers the practicality of a Defender Pick-Up, the benefits of a well thought out rebuild with modern components, serious on-sand performance from the big V8 and clever suspension and last but not least, the show to match the go.

The restoration has been carried out to an exceptionally high standard, with great attention to detail - ideal for surfing escapes, coastal drives or simply stealing the limelight at any weekend gathering. Offered with a good history file documenting the build, along with various receipts and its UK V5C.