The British design house Aubrey Automobiles has unveiled its maiden completed project: a comprehensive restoration and modern transformation of a classic 1973 Land Rover Series III 109. The endeavor represents more than a milestone in preservation; it marks a bold reimagining of a timeless utility vehicle. The meticulous process spanned eight months and exceeded a thousand hours of hands-on labor, not merely repairing the car but delivering a finished, roadworthy machine that feels contemporary under the hood while retaining its rugged, utilitarian soul.
Under the new specification, the chassis has been fully galvanized to resist the elements and extend the vehicle’s lifespan. A fresh petrol engine of 2.25 litres replaces the original setup, paired with a rebuilt gearbox, modern brakes, and a redesigned suspension system. Steering has been shifted to a left-hand drive configuration, and an electric drive system adds a layer of efficiency and reliability for modern driving conditions. These upgrades keep the classic silhouette intact while delivering the performance and reliability demanded by today’s roads and terrain. The balance between preserving heritage and introducing contemporary capability is a defining feature of the build, showcasing how enduring design can coexist with practical upgrades without erasing the vehicle’s original character.
The transformation extends beyond powertrain and chassis work. The body has gained expanded configurability, enhancing the vehicle’s versatility for a range of adventures. The removable roof is retained, but a new removable roll cage adds a level of safety and rigidity when the roof is off or when the vehicle is used in tougher environments. In total, eight different body configurations are possible, including options to remove the door tops and fold the windshield for open-air cruising. This modular approach echoes the spirit of classic off-road design while enabling quick adaptations for different weather, loadouts, or personal preference. The goal was to deliver a machine that is not just restored, but genuinely redefined for modern use while keeping the sense of freedom that the Series III embodies.
The interior treatment emphasizes luxury and practicality in equal measure. Leather upholstery and wood trim bring a refined feel to the cabin, contrasting with the rugged exterior and the vehicle’s rugged heritage. Modern conveniences have been integrated without compromising the vintage vibe: ports for charging devices, a touchscreen multimedia interface, and native support for Apple CarPlay ensure that drivers can stay connected and entertained on longer journeys. The cabin layout respects traditional Land Rover ergonomics while adopting contemporary controls and interfaces to enhance usability and comfort. All of these details contribute to a curated experience that honors the vehicle’s utilitarian roots while embracing the conveniences of the present day.
- “Drive” can be read in Viber