This is Dante the D90 Defender Restoration by Helderburg. See more here.
Helderberg’s Latest Masterpiece: Dante the Defender
In the world of custom Land Rover Defenders, Helderburg has once again raised the bar with their latest creation, Dante. This 1997 Italian-born Defender showcases the company’s commitment to quality, attention to detail, and respect for the vehicle’s heritage while incorporating modern enhancements.
Dante’s exterior is a study in subtle sophistication. The custom black pearl metallic paint job is a three-stage process that results in a deep, rich color that changes with the light, revealing grayish-blue undertones in the sun. This unique finish is complemented by carefully chosen accents, including silver billet aluminum door handles and windscreen brackets, contrasting with black hinges and windshield wipers.
The vehicle sits at Helderburg’s “normal ride height,” slightly higher than standard but without an extreme lift. It sports mud-terrain tires, striking a balance between off-road capability and on-road performance. The Puma bonnet with custom-cut louvers adds a touch of classic elegance, while the metal grille from Germany houses a larger intercooler, improving performance and adding visual dimension.
Under the hood, Dante boasts a 300 TDI engine paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. This powertrain choice is significant, as the 300 TDI is becoming increasingly desirable among enthusiasts. Helderberg has enhanced the engine with performance tuning, a larger intercooler, VNT turbo, and a custom-built injection pump, resulting in improved performance while maintaining reliability.
The interior of Dante continues the theme of refined ruggedness. Black leather upholstery with gray contrast stitching creates a luxurious atmosphere. The seats are styled after the Puma Defender, offering a bucket design reminiscent of classic Porsches from the 1980s. A wood steering wheel with black aluminum spokes adds a touch of warmth to the otherwise monochromatic interior.
Modern amenities are seamlessly integrated, including LED backlit gauges, a large touchscreen infotainment system, and a high-quality audio setup with an amplifier and subwoofer. These features provide contemporary convenience without compromising the classic Defender aesthetic.
Helderburg’s attention to detail is evident throughout the build. From the custom epoxy indicators for climate controls to the billet aluminum accents around gauges and vents, every aspect of Dante has been carefully considered and executed.
The vehicle rides on lightweight Bowler wheels, which reduce unsprung weight for improved handling. Behind these wheels lie Helderburg’s performance brakes – 6-piston calipers in front and 4-piston in the rear, paired with cross-drilled rotors, providing exceptional stopping power.
Dante represents the pinnacle of what a restored and modified Defender can be. It’s a vehicle that pays homage to its roots while embracing modern performance and luxury. For enthusiasts and collectors looking for a Defender that stands out from the crowd, Helderburg’s Dante offers a compelling package – a vehicle that can tackle off-road trails with ease, turn heads on city streets, and provide a comfortable, luxurious driving experience all at once.
In a world of mass-produced vehicles, creations like Dante remind us of the value of bespoke craftsmanship and the enduring appeal of a well-built, thoughtfully modified classic. Helderburg has not just restored a Defender; they’ve reimagined what a Defender can be, creating a vehicle that’s as much a joy to drive as it is to behold.
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