Rovers Revived

Lucra Cars restored and modified Land Rovers

Story and Photos by Steve Temple

Even though Land Rovers are legendary for their off-road capabilities, earlier models are getting a bit long in the tooth and many likely need some refreshing after many hard miles on the trail. If that’s the case with your rig, then Lucra Cars can lend a hand. Headed by Luke Richards, this company has a diverse background in building high-performance cars, such as the Lister-style Lucra and Corvette conversions, among others.

Noting a a resurgence in popularity of Land Rovers, Lucra now offers both frame-off restorations and restomods for those desiring more style and performance out of their old Rover, along with sourcing and importing them as well.

This ‘89 Defender 110 was sorely in need of some upgrades, so it received enhancements to the engine, chassis, wiring and HVAC system, along with Line X coating and a full repaint in RAF blue.

Note how the spare tire carrier is mounted to the frame instead of the door. The latter setup from the factory caused wear and tear, but Lucra’s mounting avoids that problem.

While the beer tap knob on the shifter doesn’t pour a draft on the go, it reminds the driver what awaits at the end of a long, dusty trail!

The Defender’s interior was spruced up with hand-fabricated aluminum panels and modern electronic monitors.

The factory 2.5-liter 200 TDI was fitted with a bigger aftermarket turbo for more grunt to get up the grade, along with Racepak’s Street SmartWire system that replaces the antiquated factory fuse setup.

As for sourcing a Land Rover, Lucra has buyers in the U.K. and mainland Europe that can track down Defender 90 and 110 series that fit your budget.

Depending on the condition of the vehicle, Lucra can supply a replacement chassis if needed. These CAD units are CNC laser cut, and welded at Lucra’s SoCal shop. Available choices include a factory-style, original configuration as a direct replacement or a modified long-travel suspension. The latter design was derived from experience with off-road racing rigs. This upgraded chassis uses proven Fox coilover shocks and Heim joints with spherical bearings. These enhancements not only make for a better ride on the street, but also provide more wheel travel and improved articulation on rugged terrain.

Both chassis choices, available in either cold-rolled steel or chromoly, can run different engines than stock, should extra power be preferred. Richards recommends installing GM’s LS engines in particular, but will drop in a diesel if desired. Whichever route you go, these revived Rovers will likely handle tough trails with aplomb.

Lucra Cars

310/948-1489

www.lucra.cars