ECD Automotive Design is known for turning classic Land Rover Defenders into heavily customized luxury builds, often with modern engines, upgraded suspensions, and interiors that bear little resemblance to the original utility vehicle. Its new Heritage Product Line takes a different approach, replicating the glory days of its debut.
Available as either a six-seat Defender 90 or nine-seat Defender 110, the Heritage series is designed for buyers who want a properly restored Defender that retains the mechanical character that made the truck appealing in the first place. Prices start at $159,995, which is still serious money, but relatively approachable within the world of ground-up, bespoke Defender restorations.
A Defender Built Around Its Original Character
The centerpiece of the Heritage package is a rebuilt TD5 diesel engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission. The 2.5-liter inline-five produces 122 horsepower, so this is not a high-output diesel conversion or a truck intended to win stoplight races.
The TD5 provides the sound, response, and deliberate driving experience associated with later classic Defenders. It is paired with a rebuilt original transfer case, full-time four-wheel drive, rebuilt factory axles, stock-style suspension, and OEM braking components. Rather than trying to make the Defender feel like a modern SUV, ECD is preserving the slower, more mechanical driving experience.
The major systems are still refreshed for dependability. Heritage builds receive new OEM fuel-system components, aluminum cooling systems with electric fans, stainless steel exhausts, and new Land Rover fuel tanks. The goal is to retain the original layout while addressing the age-related issues that can make ownership difficult.
Exterior details follow the same formula. Buyers can choose from 15 traditional Land Rover colors, 16-inch Wolf steel wheels, and either Michelin Defender road tires or Pirelli Scorpion all-terrain tires. Slim bumpers, classic grilles, folding steps, OEM-style hardware, and black checker plates keep the overall appearance familiar.
Inside, the Defender remains utility-focused. Standard equipment includes black vinyl seating, a traditional TD5 dashboard, a Momo Prototipo steering wheel, lined floors, and heavy-duty rubber mats. The Defender 90 uses a six-seat layout, while the longer Defender 110 can accommodate nine occupants.
ECD does add a few useful modern features, including under-dash air conditioning, Bluetooth audio, USB ports, LED lighting, remote locking, and front power windows. ECD claims that these additions do not interrupt the analog driving experience.
Heritage Defender Upgrades and Options
Customers who want additional comfort or capability can still personalize the Heritage package. Available upgrades include heavy-duty suspension, an ARB winch bumper, upgraded exhaust systems, leather upholstery, alternative stitching patterns, modern audio systems, Apple CarPlay displays, entertainment screens, tubular side steps, roof lighting, a four-point roll cage, and several 18- and 20-inch wheel designs.
ECD also offers Chelsea Truck Company wide-body components, Kahn exterior pieces, and an X-Lander grille and lighting package. Buyers who want more power can replace the TD5 and manual transmission with a 2.3-liter Ford EcoBoost engine and an automatic transmission.
For diesel enthusiasts, however, the standard TD5 Heritage configuration is the most rewarding version. It keeps the Defender simple, manual, and recognizably mechanical while providing the benefits of a comprehensive rebuild. At $159,995, it offers a more attainable path into an ECD Defender for the customer who values authenticity more than outright power or modern luxury.
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