Blackbridge Motors x Roadster Shop Pioneering New Chassis Technology Leads Industry Innovation with New 1995 Midnight-Black Land Rover Defender

Blackbridge Motors’ Proprietary, Cutting Edge Solutions Offer a Sublime Level of Driveability, Usability, and Ease of Ownership Above All Competitors

[source: Blackbridge Motors]

NORWALK, CT – Blackbridge Motors, renowned for their bespoke Land Rover restorations and concierge-level service that affords clients a seamless and enjoyable customization experience, is excited to unveil an innovative landmark build that truly moves the industry forward: a 1995 Land Rover Defender 110 in Beluga Black (belugablack; non-metallic; 416; Land Rover) with a new custom chassis specifically designed for the Defender 110 platform. This unprecedented chassis design, developed in collaboration with Roadster Shop, was engineered as a first-ever solution for the Defender platform with the explicit purpose of revolutionizing the drivability, functionality, and overall driving experience of the renowned overlanding rig. Blackbridge takes pride in delivering completely custom-made vehicles that are the epitome of their clients’ dreams, tailored precisely to their specifications. The newest Blackbridge Motors Defender is an exquisite reimagination of the acclaimed marque designed perfectly for chasing endless summers with sophistication, class, and elegance. Featuring a removable roof and re-engineered chassis, this Defender 110 was meticulously crafted with both style and function in mind, with special emphasis placed on immersing passengers in the warm embrace of the coming season, wherever it might take them. Beneath its refined exterior lies a powerful GM Performance 6.2L V8 LT1 engine, ensuring unparalleled performance and capability. This vehicle is not just a means of transportation, but a statement of luxury and innovation, designed to deliver an unmatched driving experience.

“We were honored to work in close collaboration with the experts and great minds over at Roadster Shop for this first-of-its-kind build. Their more than 30 years of experience and truly best-in-class eye for innovation makes them a second-to-none partner in terms of chassis development,” comments Blackbridge Motors Founder & CEO Scott Gilbert. “Collaborating with Roadster Shop on this project was particularly important, as this unique chassis technology has not been done anywhere across the restoration market to this point. We’re happy to be the first to break ground in this manner, because our goal is to propel the industry forward and bring more enthusiasts the joy of owning and daily driving a classic Land Rover that is built to thrive in modern conditions.”

This 1995 Land Rover Defender 110 stands as a testament to engineering excellence, built on a Roadster Shop x Blackbridge chassis. This robust foundation includes a Dana 44 style front axle and a Dana 60 style rear axle, both outfitted with heavy-duty gears for optimal performance. For superior handling and stability, the Defender features a 4-link rear suspension paired with Fox Racing 2.0 Series coilovers. The braking system is a marvel of precision and reliability, featuring Blackbridge Hydroboost technology. It includes four-wheel disc brakes with a Wilwood master cylinder, Wilwood electronic parking brake, and Blackbridge brake lines enhanced with a Wilwood proportioning valve. Fuel efficiency and reliability are ensured by the stainless steel 22-gallon fuel tank and Blackbridge’s advanced returnless fuel system, complete with a high-flow fuel pump. This Defender 110 is meticulously designed to offer superior performance and durability at a price point that is competitive across the market.

At the heart of this Defender lies an extensively upgraded powerhouse: a formidable GM Performance 6.2L V8 LT1 engine, delivering 465 horsepower. This potent engine is seamlessly paired with a GM Performance 8-speed automatic transmission and an Advance Adapters ATLAS 2-speed transfer case, ensuring exceptional performance and versatility on any terrain. The vehicle is further enhanced with Blackbridge front and rear driveshafts, a custom cooling system featuring dual fan control, and a stainless steel exhaust system, all contributing to its robust and reliable performance. Inside, the Defender exudes a blend of modern performance and classic styling with interior upgrades that include a Blackbridge gear selector lever and an analog-style gauge package. Every detail is meticulously designed to elevate the driving experience, making this Defender a true feat of engineering and design excellence.

The Defender 110 showcases an OEM-style standard-width body, enhanced with Puma-style first and second-row doors, featuring automatic window regulators and locks for modern convenience. It also boasts an OEM clear glass windscreen, a Puma-style hood, and OEM headlight surrounds and grille, all contributing to its authentic, eye-catching curb presence. The Beluga black exterior paint adds a touch of elegance and refinement with its lustrous, deep black finish. Inside, the vehicle features a Blackbridge “Early Style” dashboard layout, offering a nod to classic design, while the internal roll cage provides enhanced safety for all occupants. Topping it all off, the Defender 110 is fitted with a canvas soft top featuring Strata glass. This combination of classic style and modern features ensures a driving experience that is both graceful and secure.

The luxurious interior of this Defender is exquisitely adorned with Moore & Giles leather in a “Ecru” tan colorway. The first row features Recaro Ergomed seats with custom upholstery, while the second row is outfitted with Exmoor Premium high-back seats, also custom-upholstered for a seamless and stylish appearance. In the cargo area, Exmoor inward-facing high-back seats and custom wood inlay flooring in a Chilewich “Tiger Eye” rib weave add a touch of elegance. For a cohesive look, the seats, door cards, and dashboard top are all upholstered in matching material. Additional amenities include an OEM air conditioning setup with controls, ensuring comfort in any climate, and a Blackbridge locking center console. Entertainment is elevated with a Sony 10.1” touchscreen stereo featuring Apple CarPlay, complemented by a premium audio package. This includes eight Morel mid-range speakers, a nine-channel Sony amplifier, and a Diamond Audio subwoofer, delivering an immersive audio experience. The interior is further enhanced by OEM dash controls and switches, with the addition of Blackbridge interior LED lighting for a modern touch.

The Defender 110 features 18” wheels by Method. It is equipped with BF Goodrich K02 A/T tires for optimal off-road performance. Lighting enhancements include Blackbridge x Vision X 7″ round DOT-approved LED headlights, along with LED running lights, brake lights, and turn signals for improved visibility and safety.

Pricing for the custom Blackbridge Motors 1995 Land Rover Defender 110 starts at $289,950. For more information on Blackbridge Motors and available vehicles, please visit www.blackbridgemotors.com or call (203) 902-1090.