Choosing Your Classic Land Rover Model: Defender 110, Defender 90, Defender 130, Series 88 & Series 109
Looking to restore a classic Land Rover but not sure which model is right for you?
From short-wheelbase legends to long-body overland rigs, each Land Rover has its own personality, purpose, and design legacy.
At HIMALAYA in Charleston, SC, we specialize in bringing these iconic vehicles back to life—customized to match your lifestyle. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the perfect classic Land Rover model for your next build.
Defender 90
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Wheelbase: 90″ (≈2.58 m), compact 3-door SUV
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Highlights: Nimble, sporty, ideal for two-door setups.
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Best For: Urban use and light off-roading.
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Key Notes: Feels lively with V8, especially exciting with smaller engines
Defender 90 – “Folly”
Compact, capable, and beach-ready—the Defender 90 “Folly” is a turbo diesel-powered coastal cruiser. Designed for tight streets and laid-back adventures, this build channels the energy of Folly Beach with a simplified, rugged interior and an iconic white-on-white colorway.
Defender 110
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Highlights: Versatile—family use, passenger access, still capable off-road.
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Best For: Those needing balance between space and maneuverability.
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Key Notes: Optional third-row seating, more cargo capacity
Defender 110 – “Sayulita”
The Defender 110 “Sayulita” is a refined take on the classic long-wheelbase Defender, blending rugged capability with comfort. With its LS3 V8 engine, handcrafted leather interior, and paint-matched steel wheels, it’s built for those who want off-road power without sacrificing style. Perfect for Charleston streets or Carolina backroads
Series 88 (Short Wheelbase)
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Wheelbase: 88″ SWB
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Highlights: Historic, retains timeless design charm.
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Best For: Purists and tight-terrain users.
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Key Notes: More agile than 109, especially useful for beach cruising and mountains runs.
Series 88 – “Shoreline”
A modern revival of a 1960s icon, the Series 88 “Shoreline” is compact, clean, and unmistakably classic. Its soft blue paint and safari-style details nod to the past, while its LS3 engine and upgraded drivetrain bring it fully into the present.
Series 109 (Long Wheelbase)
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Wheelbase: 109″ LWB
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Highlights: Stable and spacious, perfect for safari-style seating or hauler conversions.
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Best For: Large groups or utility use.
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Key Notes: Long-wheelbase smoother on descents and rough terrain—less susceptible to tipping
Series 109 – “Coast”
The Series 109 “Coast” offers an extended wheelbase and vintage Land Rover design with modern power and refinement. It’s the perfect choice for those who want the spirit of an overland vehicle with the comfort of a contemporary cruiser.
At HIMALAYA, our Charleston-based shop helps clients choose the perfect model for their lifestyle.
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