Series 88 vs Defender 90: Which Classic Land Rover Suits You?

When you're deciding between the vintage Series 88 and the more modern Defender 90, it's easy to overlook how different they truly are—especially if you're new to the Land Rover world. At HIMALAYA in Charleston, SC, we specialize in restoring both, infusing heritage models with modern performance and comfort.

Land Rover Series 88: Roots of the Legend

Era: 1958–1985
Wheelbase: 88″
Charm: The purist’s favorite, original analog controls, classic riveted hood, and minimalist dashboard.
Best For: Collectors and enthusiasts looking for an authentic 1960s driving look and feel.

👉 Check out: Series 88 “Shoreline”

HIMALAYA Upgrades to Series 88

At HIMALAYA, we take the classic feel of the Series 88 and bring it up to modern standards with impressive upgrades:

Modern chassis & suspension: Coil-sprung chassis with heavy-duty axles and disc brakes ensure a smoother, more confident ride—not just around Charleston, but anywhere.

Powerful drivetrains: Swapped-in GM LS3/V6 options paired with automatic transmissions to reduce noise, improve reliability, and fit modern fuel requirements.

Road-ready features: Power steering, power brakes, modern dash cluster, custom wiring harness, safety belts, and even hidden audio systems—all while preserving the classic look.

Here’s one in action:

From the first glance, it looks like a ’60s Land Rover—but once you drive it, the performance and comfort are unmistakably modern.

Land Rover Defender 90: A Modern Cult Classic

Era: 1983–2016
Wheelbase: 90″
Charm: More refined body lines, coil-spring ride, improved drivetrains, and better handling.
Best For: Those seeking timeless style infused with modern performance—it’s ideal for daily drives, trails, and cruising coastal roads.

👉 Check out: Defender 90 “Folly”

HIMALAYA Upgrades to Defender 90

Our take on the Defender 90 takes everything people love about the original—and dials it up for modern roads, trails, and coastal cruises.

The “Stella Blue” Defender 90, featured in this video, is a perfect example. Originally a 1994 Defender, we completely reimagined the platform while preserving its compact, iconic form. The result is a short-wheelbase Land Rover that feels as at home downtown Charleston as it does deep in the Carolina backcountry.

Key Upgrades Include:

Modern Drivetrain: Powered by a GM LS3 V8 paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission, delivering seamless performance and over 400hp—plenty of power for a lightweight 90 chassis.
Custom Suspension + Brakes: With coil springs, upgraded shocks, and Wilwood disc brakes, the ride is smooth, confident, and capable on any terrain.
Luxury Interior Touches: Inside, “Stella Blue” features hand-stitched tan leather upholstery, custom-built speaker enclosures, modern audio, and a reworked dash that respects its roots while adding refinement.
Modern Creature Comforts: Air conditioning, power steering, insulation, LED lighting, and more—so you get vintage looks with daily-driver comfort.

From the outside, it looks like a classic Defender, but behind the wheel, it’s a completely modern driving experience.

Explore 'Stella Blue' here: