In the world of classic Land Rover Defender builds, Helderburg’s Lazare project sets a new standard for what it means to restore and reinvent an icon. Starting with the legendary Defender 110 chassis, Helderburg crafts a machine that honors vintage DNA while delivering performance, comfort, and luxury at a level rarely seen in the restomod scene.
At the heart of Lazare is the exclusive Helderburg 2.8 liter turbo diesel, inspired by the legendary 300Tdi but rebuilt from the ground up with precision CNC components. The result is not just higher power but extreme durability, with a lifespan that can stretch between eight hundred thousand and nearly one million three hundred thousand kilometers, all while achieving impressive fuel efficiency.
But the engineering overhaul goes way beyond the motor. Lazare gets Helderburg’s signature suspension lift, a wider track for extra stability, and custom progressive coil springs developed in Germany. The steering system, long a weak spot in old Defenders, is rebuilt for precision and lightness. Braking power gets a major boost too, with CNC machined calipers delivering strong and predictable stops on any surface. The total package brings modern handling and reliability to a timeless off road shape.
Step inside Lazare and you will find a cabin that feels more luxury lounge than utilitarian truck. Hand stitched burgundy Italian leather, four times thicker than standard hides, covers the seats, dash, and doors for a tactile and inviting feel. Each seat is custom measured for the owner, with unique patterns developed just for this build, ensuring comfort and support on any drive.
Even details like steering wheel diameter and console height are tailored for ergonomic perfection. For peace and quiet, Helderburg fits thicker glass and advanced sound insulation, while a Focal Utopia audio system with beryllium speakers transforms every journey into a concert. The technology suite brings the best of both worlds, with Apple CarPlay, rear and security cameras, and an optional cloud connected monitoring system.
Outside, Lazare glows with a triple layer bronze gold finish inspired by vintage Ferrari, applied at enormous cost for depth and shine. Machined billet aluminum trim replaces factory plastics, while a six point exterior roll cage ties the look together and anchors it directly to the chassis. Lazare is not just a restoration, it is a full scale reimagining of what a classic Defender can become.
Started my career in Automotive Journalism in 2015. Even though I'm a pharmacist, hanging around cars all the time has created a passion for the automotive industry since day 1.