by Unique duo from Land Rover
There are expensive SUVs, there are meticulously restored classic models, and then there is what Land Rover is doing now. Instead of another one-off restoration, the British brand has created a factory set of two vehicles: the new flagship SV Ultra and a carefully restored 1993 Range Rover Classic. And, depending on your financial situation, this can be either good or bad, because it is impossible to purchase them separately — both vehicles will be sold together at an auction during Monterey Car Week.
Revival of a classic
This project demonstrates what the Land Rover Classic division can achieve when the budget is virtually unlimited. The donor vehicle, a US-spec County Edition, was transformed over more than 2,000 hours of work into essentially a 1993 interpretation of the new Range Rover SV Ultra.
Classic in flagship guise
Painted in the same Titan Silver color as its modern counterpart, the Classic also received several subtle styling changes. The 16-inch wheels feature diamond-turned rims with a Satin Platinum finish, the front end received updated badging, and the original side molding was removed to give the 33-year-old SUV a cleaner and more modern look. Inside, the resemblance becomes even more evident.
The interior features the same Orchid White and Cinder Grey color scheme as the SV Ultra. Land Rover has also added Ultrafabrics upholstery. Even the seat pattern and laser-created perforation were borrowed directly from the flagship. No one would suspect that the 1993 model is not original, despite the unchanged dashboard and overall design.
Restoration down to the last bolt
Mechanically, according to Land Rover, authenticity remained a priority. The company rebuilt virtually every component, including the 3.9-liter V8, four-speed automatic transmission, braking system, and suspension. Forget for a moment about Monterey Car Week; this is exactly what would delight anyone looking for a classic Range Rover.
Auction and value
The pair will debut publicly during Monterey Car Week before crossing the auction block at RM Sotheby’s on August 14. Land Rover has not provided an estimate, but given that one vehicle is a bespoke SV Ultra starting at $252,800 before options, and the other required over 2,000 hours of restoration work, it is hardly a lot where someone will ask about financing availability.
Photo: Range Rover
This project highlights the growing market for factory collector commissions, where automakers are not just restoring old models but creating unique pairs that blend heritage and modern technology. For collectors, this is not just a car purchase but an investment in brand history, which is likely to appreciate over time. At the same time, this approach raises questions about the accessibility of classic cars to the general public, as such lots become the preserve of only the wealthiest enthusiasts.
