Signature Autosports Finished Custom Defender Build
The Wilmington-based shop has listed the fully modified 1993 Land Rover Defender for nearly $300,000.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Car Culture
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Signature Autosports completed its Project Big Sky vehicle build, a heavily modified 1993 Land Rover Defender. The custom off-road machine is now listed for sale at $299,950.
Why it matters
The build represents a significant transformation of a classic utility platform into a high-performance vehicle. It showcases the integration of modern powertrain components into a vintage chassis.
The vehicle features a 700-horsepower, 5.0-liter Ford Coyote V-8 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. It displays 1,625 miles on the odometer and rides on six General Grabber X3 LT275/70R18 tires.
The players
Signature Autosports
This is a Wilmington-based automotive facility that specializes in the restoration and modification of classic vehicles.
Hyper Offroad & Performance
This engineering firm focuses on powertrain integration, suspension tuning, and the redevelopment of automotive driveline systems.
The details
Hyper Offroad & Performance handled the technical overhaul, including the wiring, ECU, suspension, and engine positioning. Signature Autosports completed the build with a new exterior finish and black anodized billet-aluminum hardware, while the cabin features distressed pinecone leather.
Timeline
The Land Rover Defender was originally manufactured in 1993.
Vehicle records indicated 151 miles on the title as of April 2018.
The vehicle had accumulated 807 miles by 2019.
The project completion was announced on October 1, 2026.
Roadmap
The integration of modern high-performance powertrains into legacy off-road chassis reflects a broader trend of resto-modding vintage icons for contemporary capabilities. This project highlights how specialized shops are leveraging Ford performance parts to bridge the gap between classic aesthetics and modern mechanical power.
Potential buyers should note the significant price tag reflects the extensive engineering and custom components required for such a high-output build. Daily drivers of similar modified vehicles should expect specialized maintenance requirements due to the custom driveline and powertrain setup.
The takeaway
Resto-mod projects like this demonstrate that vintage utility vehicles can be completely reimagined with modern 700-horsepower performance. Collectors and enthusiasts interested in such builds should prioritize verifying the quality of the technical integration when evaluating high-end modified vehicles.
Further reading
For more information on the latest custom builds in the area, visit Car Culture.
Source note: This article includes information reported by THE SHOP.
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