Check out this Land Rover Defender D90 Soft Top by Helderburg. Paul Potratz shares all the special details of this build in this video review. See more of this build here.
Discover the “Stoic” D90 Land Rover Defender by Helderburg: A Masterpiece of Classic Design and Modern Performance
If you’re a Land Rover enthusiast or simply appreciate automotive craftsmanship, the latest video review of the “Stoic” D90 Land Rover Defender by Helderburg is a must-watch. This build isn’t just another restoration-it’s a reimagining of the iconic Defender, blending vintage character with bespoke luxury and modern engineering. Let’s dive into what makes Stoic stand out and why this video deserves your attention.
A Color Like No Other
The first thing you’ll notice about Stoic is its stunning color. Unlike any standard Land Rover shade, Stoic sports a vintage Ferrari-inspired blue-a solid, glossy hue with hints of Porsche’s Albert blue and a subtle touch of purple. In person, this color is absolutely captivating, offering a sophisticated twist on the Defender’s classic silhouette.
Performance That Redefines the D90
Under the hood, Stoic is powered by a performance-tuned 300 TDI turbo diesel engine. Helderburg has upgraded the turbo, intercooler, and cylinder head, and installed their own performance exhaust. The five-speed manual transmission and re-geared differentials ensure Stoic can comfortably reach highway speeds-an impressive feat for a soft top Defender. Enhanced heating, air conditioning, and a three-ply insulated soft top make this D90 a true four-season vehicle, ready for any adventure.
Attention to Detail, Inside and Out
Every aspect of Stoic’s design has been meticulously considered. The front end retains the classic Land Rover grille, but Helderburg adds their signature touches: billet aluminum headlight surrounds, LED lighting, and the preferred silver “Defender” lettering. The silver galvanized bumper and optional rope nod to the Defender’s rugged heritage while elevating its aesthetic appeal.
On the side, you’ll find solid billet aluminum door handles and hinges-far superior to the standard plastic components. The step-up bars feature hand-crafted mahogany treads with marine-grade caulk for grip, seamlessly blending with the vehicle’s interior woodwork. The modular wolf-style wheels and BFGoodrich KO2 tires give Stoic a robust stance without unnecessary lift.
A Cabin That Marries Classic and Contemporary
Step inside, and Stoic continues to impress. The rear features a removable black walnut floor, finished with marine-grade lacquer for durability and nautical flair. The interior upholstery, in a shade reminiscent of classic Ferrari, is accented by chestnut brown basket stitching. Center-facing bench seats offer seating for four, each with seat belts for safety.
In the driver’s cockpit, simplicity reigns. There’s no Apple CarPlay or touchscreen-just a beautifully crafted leather dash, billet aluminum details, and a Marshall amp Bluetooth speaker for music lovers who appreciate both analog charm and modern convenience. The air conditioning system is cleverly integrated to maintain the Defender’s timeless look.
A True Nut-and-Bolt Restoration
Helderburg’s approach goes beyond mere refreshment. Stoic has been completely disassembled, stripped to the frame, and rebuilt with all-new parts-even down to custom-sized seat frames. The galvanized corner braces at the rear are not just a design cue-they’re proof of the thorough, uncompromising restoration process.
Why Watch This Video?
This review isn’t just a walkaround; it’s a passionate exploration of what makes a Helderburg Defender unique. You’ll gain insights into design choices, restoration philosophy, and the driving experience that only a true enthusiast can provide. Whether you’re considering your own custom build or simply want to appreciate automotive artistry, this video is your gateway to the world of bespoke Defenders.
Don’t miss your chance to see Stoic in action and discover what sets Helderburg apart. Watch the video, subscribe for more adventures, and if you’re ready to own a D90 soft top like Stoic, reach out to Helderburg-these masterpieces don’t stay available for long!