A Defender Reimagined

Project Jolly began with the unmistakable form of a 1995 Land Rover Defender 90, a machine built for ruggedness but ready for a new kind of adventure. The mission: to preserve the Defender’s iconic silhouette while redefining its performance, comfort, and refinement. Beneath its purposeful stance lies a completely reengineered soul one that transforms this British classic into a precision-built modern performer.

Classic Form, Modern Function

At its heart is a Chevrolet 350 ci (5.7 L) small-block V8 fitted with modern electronic fuel injection. Producing roughly 290 hp and 375lb-ft of torque, the engine brings smooth, immediate power delivery while maintaining bulletproof reliability. It’s paired to a 4L80E heavy-duty automatic transmission fully integrated with custom wiring, cooling, and control logic for seamless shifts and highway composure. Over 2,100 hours went into the transformation, from bespoke transfer-case fabrication to final EFI and transmission tuning. The result is a Defender that feels as composed on the open road as it does unstoppable off-road.

Inside, the transformation continues with a handcrafted, leather-clad interior that elevates the Defender’s utilitarian roots into a place of genuine craftsmanship. The dash, console, and door panels are wrapped in smooth hides with precise stitching, while deeply contoured heated comfort seats bring modern ergonomics to this vintage icon. Combined with full acoustic insulation, Apple CarPlay integration, and refined lighting, Jolly offers an entirely new take on what a Defender can be. Cloaked in a British Racing Green metallic finish, every line and surface speaks to the balance of heritage and innovation that defines Legacy Overland.

Highlights of the build:

  • Powertrain & Driveline

  • 350 ci V8 (ATK HP99C) with modern EFI system (~290 hp / 375lb-ft)

  • 4L80E 4-speed automatic transmission with custom control integration

  • Custom driveline and transfer-case adaptation

  • Full rebuild of axles, differentials, and steering components

  • New shocks, brakes, bushings, and tie-rod ends

  • Resealed steering box and complete fluid service

  • Mechanical & Electrical Systems

  • Complete custom wiring harness and electronics modernization

  • Power windows, central locking, and alarm system

  • LED headlights and auxiliary lighting

  • Upgraded alternator and dual electric cooling fans

  • Air-conditioning retrofit and ECU-linked controls

  • Body & Exterior

  • Full repaint in British Racing Green metallic

  • Corrected and refinished bodywork with corrosion elimination

  • XTevu-style Defender grille

  • Rear NAS step bumper and LED bumper lamps

  • Side steps and new exterior hardware

  • Final paint correction and detailing

  • Interior & Comfort

  • Leather-clad dash, console, and door panels

  • Heated comfort seats with premium stitched upholstery

  • Custom carpeting and suede roofliner

  • Full Dynamat acoustic and thermal insulation

  • Center console with Carling switches and auxiliary controls

  • Apple CarPlay audio with amplifier and six-speaker layout

  • New alloy door hardware, seals, and trim throughout

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