Performance Tuned
Land Rover Defender D110 - Lange

The Lange Story

Custom Classic Land Rover Defender D110 Restoration: A Review of Helderburg’s Masterpiece

The Land Rover Defender has long been celebrated as an iconic vehicle, blending rugged utility with timeless design. Helderburg, a company renowned for its bespoke Defender restorations, has taken this classic to new heights with its custom builds. Among their creations is the Defender D110 “Lange,” a vehicle that embodies craftsmanship, performance, and purpose-driven design. This article delves into the details of this remarkable restoration, exploring its features, engineering, and the philosophy behind Helderburg’s approach.

The Story Behind “Lange”

The name “Lange” is rooted in German, Norwegian, and Scandinavian heritage, translating to “reach for the sky.” This name was chosen to reflect the aspirations of its owner, John from Texas, and the ambitious nature of the build itself. Starting in Germany and culminating in Helderburg’s workshop, this Defender D110 is a testament to meticulous design and engineering tailored to meet John’s specific needs.

Exterior Design: Aesthetic Meets Functionality

One of the first things that stands out about Lange is its striking color. The paint finish has been a topic of much discussion at Helderburg, as it balances boldness with sophistication. While Helderburg has used similar finishes on other builds like Sandoval and Bruno, this particular hue may even inspire future projects, such as their upcoming Defender 130.

Suspension and Tires

The Defender D110 features a 3-inch suspension lift designed with precision. Unlike many lifted trucks in the industry where modifications are often improperly executed, Helderburg ensures that every detail—from custom prop shafts to radius arms—is adjusted to factory specifications. This guarantees safety and durability while minimizing wear on parts like U-joints and axles.

The tires play a significant role in the vehicle’s performance and appearance. Lange is equipped with smaller tires compared to some of Helderburg’s other builds, such as Bruno and Sandoval. These tires have a 15-degree offset and are mounted on 10-inch-wide wheels, offering a smoother ride while maintaining versatility. However, should John desire a bulkier look or enhanced off-road capability, swapping out wheels and tires is an easy option due to the adaptable suspension setup.

Roll Cage and Roof Rack

Safety is paramount in any Helderburg build. The roll cage on Lange is not merely cosmetic; it is fully functional and integrated into the frame for maximum protection. Complemented by a roof rack, this setup adds practicality without compromising aesthetics.

Performance Engineering: Built for Versatility

Helderburg’s philosophy revolves around making classic Defenders not only visually appealing but also enjoyable to drive daily. The original Defenders were known for their sluggish performance and cumbersome handling—issues that Helderburg addresses through extensive research and development (R&D).

Progressive Coil Springs

One standout feature in Lange’s suspension system is its progressive coil springs. These springs adapt to varying conditions, providing smooth rides over bumpy terrain while maintaining stability on highways. This innovation ensures comfort whether John is traversing his Texas ranch or embarking on long road trips.

Fox Shocks

The vehicle is equipped with Fox shocks designed for heavy-duty off-road use. These shocks resist overheating during prolonged use and complement the progressive springs for optimal ride quality. Helderburg also experiments with other shock options like Bilstein and newly developed adjustable shocks as part of their ongoing R&D efforts.

Powertrain

The Defender D110 boasts a five-speed manual transmission paired with a heavy-duty clutch—a combination that enhances control and reliability. The diesel engine benefits from upgraded components such as larger intercoolers and exhaust systems, ensuring robust performance across various driving conditions.

Interior Craftsmanship: Luxury Meets Durability

The interior of Lange exemplifies Helderburg’s commitment to blending luxury with practicality. Every detail has been carefully curated to enhance both aesthetics and functionality.

Leather Upholstery

Helderburg uses premium leather sourced from Scotland that is thicker than standard automotive upholstery. This choice caters specifically to pet owners like John who require durability against scratches from dog nails or other wear-and-tear factors. The leather retains its elegance while offering resilience against daily use.

Custom Features

From billet aluminum door handles to handcrafted gauges with brushed aluminum surrounds, every element of the interior reflects quality craftsmanship. Even practical components like hinges are made from durable billet aluminum rather than plastic, ensuring longevity.

LED Lighting

Modern LED lighting is integrated throughout the vehicle—inside and out—to improve visibility and add a contemporary touch without detracting from its vintage charm.

Front-End Innovations: A Modern Take on Classic Design

Helderburg pays special attention to the front-end design of their Defenders. Lange features several enhancements that elevate both form and function:

• Metal Grille: Handmade in Germany, this grille replaces plastic counterparts for added durability.
• Bump-Out: This feature accommodates larger intercoolers for improved engine cooling while adding visual depth to the front fascia.
• Billet Aluminum Headlight Surrounds: Exclusive to Helderburg builds, these surrounds incorporate turn signals into the headlights for enhanced safety.
• Heavy-Duty Bumper: Constructed from thick metal with oval cutouts matching other design elements like steering dampener guards.

Purpose-Built Philosophy

What sets Helderburg apart is their commitment to purpose-built vehicles tailored to each client’s needs. During the design process for Lange, John specified that he would use the Defender extensively on his ranch—hauling equipment and accommodating passengers in the rear cabin. To meet these requirements:

• Heavy-duty progressive coil springs were installed to handle additional weight.
• The rear cabin was left without wood flooring to withstand rugged use.
• Weight ratings were calculated based on anticipated loads.

Research & Development: The Backbone of Helderburg

Helderburg’s success lies in their dedication to R&D—a practice rooted in founder Paul’s initial dissatisfaction with driving classic Defenders. By collaborating with experts in England (the birthplace of Land Rover) and experimenting with innovative parts like adjustable shocks, Helderburg continually refines their builds.

Clients often remark on how seamlessly Helderburg Defenders transition from vintage aesthetics to modern drivability—making them suitable as daily drivers without sacrificing character.

A Personal Touch: Naming Conventions

Helderburg vehicles often carry unique names that reflect their identity or purpose. While “Lange” captures the spirit of reaching for greatness, Paul invites feedback on whether future builds should feature names like “Defender,” “Land Rover,” or simply “Helderburg” emblazoned on their bonnets—a nod to their iconic status.

Conclusion: A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship

Lange represents everything Helderburg stands for: meticulous engineering, luxurious craftsmanship, and purpose-driven design. From its lifted suspension system to its durable leather upholstery tailored for pet owners, every aspect of this Defender D110 has been thoughtfully executed.

Whether navigating rugged ranch terrain or cruising down highways in Texas heat, Lange proves that classic vehicles can be reborn as modern masterpieces—without losing their soul. For enthusiasts seeking more than just a car but an extension of their lifestyle, Helderburg continues to deliver excellence one Defender at a time.