Here at The Coolector, we love nothing more than seeing classic rides brought back to life with a new lease on luxury and performance, and Legacy Overland’s Project Taconic 1988 Land Rover Defender 90 is one of the finest examples we’ve come across. This restoration takes an already good Defender and elevates it to something truly special—boosting it to the next level with a thorough rebuild and the addition of some brilliant modern upgrades. The result? An immaculate Defender 90 that’s ready to take on both leisurely drives through horse country and more adventurous outings alike.

The Legacy Overland team approached this project with meticulous attention to detail, restoring virtually every part of the 1988 Defender 90. Not content with just bringing it back to its original state, they incorporated a myriad of upgrades to ensure this classic Land Rover was ready for modern-day driving. One of the standout upgrades is the rebuilt Land Rover 3.5L V8 engine, which now boasts hydraulic tappets, a sports exhaust, a more aggressive camshaft, and a modern electronic fuel injection system. All this power is kept cool with an aluminium radiator equipped with an electric fan, ensuring that the Defender runs as smoothly as it looks.

In addition to the engine overhaul, the suspension, brake system, and mechanical components have all been upgraded. The vehicle features an all-new fuel system, disc brake upgrades, and a 5-speed manual transmission, making this Defender 90 an absolute joy to drive. It’s been transformed into a comfortable and capable ride, ready to tackle both rugged terrains and everyday roads with ease.

The interior is just as impressive as the mechanical upgrades, with a complete overhaul that brings a level of luxury rarely seen in a classic Defender. The front features heated Corbeau bucket seats wrapped in black leather with white contrast stitching, while the rear includes four jump seats. The cubby box and dashboard have been finished in matching leather, and a custom centre console fitted with an auxiliary gauge cluster adds a modern touch. The entire interior is dressed in charcoal Alcantara, from the roof to the walls, creating a sleek and refined atmosphere. A wood-rimmed steering wheel, digital reproduction main gauges with billet aluminium bezels, and all-alloy interior hardware complete the elegant transformation.

Legacy Overland didn’t stop at aesthetics—they also added modern conveniences to make this Defender a truly enjoyable ride. Power windows, a rearview camera integrated into the rearview mirror, and a custom air conditioning system were all fitted to enhance the driving experience. Additional touches like interior courtesy lamps, exterior downlights, and sound-deadening materials ensure that this Defender is as functional as it is beautiful.

The exterior of the Defender 90 has also been given a fresh, custom grey paint job, which pairs perfectly with the black alloy Land Rover wheels. Custom door cards, black carpeting, and a distinctive custom shifter and boot complete the look, making this a Defender that turns heads wherever it goes.

Legacy Overland’s Project Taconic is a masterclass in how to blend classic design with modern touches, taking the timeless Land Rover Defender 90 and transforming it into a vehicle that’s ready for today’s adventures. With its combination of heritage style, luxurious interior, and powerful performance upgrades, this is a Defender that truly stands out from the crowd.