Many of Land Rover’s most famous models have been reimagined, forming the basis of bespoke build projects that enhance the original blueprint far beyond its intended means. While the Defender has been ripe for modification by numerous custom upgrade companies, both classic and modern iterations of the Range Rover have also caught the eye of these bespoke rebuilders. This custom 4x4 by Chieftain breathes life into Spen King’s timeless Range Rover ‘Classic’ design from 1970 by introducing many high-tech features for both form and function.

The example offered here is built with a 1993 Range Rover ‘Classic’ body shell transposed onto a 2004 Land Rover Discovery 3 chassis. The transformation is understood to have taken place in 2017, when the Chieftain engineers shortened the Discovery platform by 345 millimetres and installed the Range Rover body shell with custom adaptors. The body shape is complemented by wider wheel arches and 20-inch alloy wheels, together with bolder bumpers and side-skirts. Under the bonnet, Chieftain turned to General Motors to source the 6.2-litre supercharged V-8 engine, which in this case is rated at 556 brake horsepower. That brawn is delivered through a six-speed automatic transmission.

Inside the car, the interior has been sympathetically retrimmed in accordance with its original specification—in this case electing for beige leather that perfectly frames many of the original features found within the cabin of the Range Rover ‘Classic’. The interior plays host to many touchpoints where the older design meets high-tech function, such as the touchscreen Alpine multimedia unit and push-button engine start.

After this re-engineered build was completed, it was used by Chieftain as a demonstrator for promotional activity and press drives. Accordingly, this very car featured in magazine test review features in publications, including Autocar.

In July 2020, then fitted with an air suspension set-up, the Range Rover Custom was acquired by its consigning owner. After periodically returning the car to JIA for routine servicing, between 2022 and 2023 the air suspension system was replaced by an Öhlins coil over suspension kit at a cost of £19,320. The car was most recently serviced by JIA in October 2024.

Blending the iconic looks of the Range Rover ‘Classic’ with modern Land Rover functionality and intoxicating V-8 power from GM, the custom Chieftain brings the best of all worlds for the ultimate all-rounder package.