What We Do
Lavin Motors specializes in full restorations that return classic Land Rovers to their original glory. Our team of experienced partners is dedicated to delivering exceptional craftsmanship, tailored to each client’s vision. From sourcing the donor vehicle to managing the build and design process, we handle every step—including the import of these vintage trucks from Spain. Upon delivery, clients receive a beautifully restored Land Rover, complete with all necessary documentation for titling and registration in the United States.
The Process
We source the right donor trucks for each build—Series models or Defender 90, 110, and 130. Every project starts with a detailed plan and an expected 6–12 month timeline. The end result is a fully restored Land Rover that reflects the vision our clients shared with us on day one.
The Engine
“Rebuilt engine” means different things to different people. For us, it means everything.
Every Defender we build is a complete restoration. The engine comes out, is stripped down, and rebuilt from the ground up—new pistons, rings, gaskets, hardware, belts, and more. We’re not afraid to pop the hood because each engine is a work of art: torque marks, custom block colors, and accents that tie into the body color.
We don’t overbuild; we build it right. Remapped for more horsepower, upgraded intake hoses and turbos for highway ease, and reliability so that routine maintenance is the only reason you visit the shop.
Because a Defender should be driven, not babied.
The Chassis
The chassis is critical to safe driving—whether you’re climbing the hills near the Sierra Nevada or cruising down the Garden State Parkway to the shore.
That’s why we only select donor Defenders with excellent chassis. We’re fortunate that the dry, mild climate of Southern Spain helps us find the right trucks for the job.
Once stripped down, we sandblast each chassis top and bottom, then apply three coats: an epoxy primer, a base paint, and a final color. You won’t look under our trucks and simply see a quick spray of black paint. Instead, you’ll see every component clearly—steering arms, axles, bell housing, springs, dampers, and more—each finished with the care and visibility it deserves.
Because a Defender’s chassis shouldn’t just be solid. It should be something you’re proud to show off.
Steering & Braking
Steering and braking matter. That’s why we replace critical components—not just the ones you can see.
We install new half axles and CV joints, new axle stub flanges, new ball swivel housings, hubs, and bearings to ensure safe, confident motoring. Then we add new disc brakes, lines, and pads so these Defenders stop as well as they go.
Many of these components are out of sight, which is why many builders overlook them. But these details matter, especially for what these trucks were meant to do. That’s why we address them—so you can enjoy every mile, whether you’re off-road or on the highway.
Interior
Our interiors are built bespoke for each Defender and each owner.
We don’t overdo it with colors or flashy designs. At the end of the day, these are trucks. We love the classic instrument cluster and analog gauges—they fit the Defender and remind us of simpler times.
But when it comes to seats, we like to innovate. Whether it’s seats sourced from an Audi S4 or an Aston Martin DB7 Vantage, we want you to feel comfortable—whether merging onto the highway or plowing through two feet of snow. These upgraded seats also allow us to add heated seat functionality, which any Defender owner knows is essential on cold days.
Creature comforts don’t stop there. Power locks and windows, a backup camera, and a touchscreen paired with a custom-built stereo system add convenience without compromising the spirit of the Defender.
Our goal? That every time you open your Defender’s door, you smile before you even start the engine.
The Result
A beautifully restored Defender, mechanically sound and ready for any adventure.
Our owners never have to wonder what was done—or what wasn’t. Each of our Defenders undergoes an extensive restoration, with over 1,000 hours of craftsmanship poured into the paint, engine, transmission, chassis, and interior.
We’ve done our best to address everything so you won’t have to—leaving you free to enjoy your Defender from the moment you turn the key on delivery day.