The Stunning Transformation of David Flatman’s Land Rover Defender 110: From Ruin to Masterpiece with Exmoor Trim
When former rugby star David Flatman, affectionately known as "Flats," first laid eyes on his weathered Land Rover Defender 110, it was more of a relic than a ride. Having been left on a farm in Devon, this once-glorious vehicle was barely holding together—a far cry from the iconic Defender it once was. But for Flats, this wasn’t just a rescue mission—it was the start of a passion project, fuelled by a desire to craft the perfect Defender that would stand the test of time.
With the help of Exmoor Trim and a garage in Bath, that old Defender was transformed into a breathtaking masterpiece, blending classic Land Rover aesthetics with modern luxury.
A True Restoration: From Farmyard Relic to Stunning Defender 110
Flats took his Defender from rusty ruin to rugged elegance, restoring every detail to make the car his own. The once-forgotten vehicle now gleams in stunning blue, perfectly complemented by Exmoor Trim’s premium Oxford Tan interior. This combination exudes both timeless class and understated luxury, creating a space that is not only comfortable but also visually striking.
One of the key features that elevates this build is the use of silver billet aluminium, adding a sleek, modern finish to the rugged charm of the Defender. To stay true to the original spirit of the vehicle, a classic canvas hood was chosen, balancing form and function while giving the Defender its iconic outdoor feel.
But the standout feature that truly ties the entire build together is the exquisite Evander wooden rim steering wheel. The craftsmanship of the steering wheel adds a vintage touch, making every journey feel like a special occasion. Flats now enjoys a driving experience that’s both luxurious and true to the Defender’s roots.
Flats' Vision: Built for Love, Not Attention
For Flats, the decision to restore the Defender wasn’t about impressing others—it was about creating a vehicle that reflected his personal taste and lifestyle. As he explains:
"I didn’t do this car to show off to anyone. I did something that ticked every box that I wanted ticked. I’ve never done it to get attention from other people, but this car, as it happens, has got more attention from the members of the public than I’ve ever had from a car.”
This project became more than just restoring an old vehicle—it became Flats’ way of creating something truly unique, a car that would be cherished for generations. He continues:
"It makes journeys special occasions. This is my favourite car by a mile, and I want to keep it for my kids and their kids."
Watch the Full Transformation Video on YouTube
Curious to see the full transformation of David Flatman’s Defender 110? Head over to our YouTube channel, where Flats walks us through the incredible process. You’ll see firsthand how Exmoor Trim played a crucial role in bringing his vision to life.
Watch the full video here
Why Choose Exmoor Trim?
At Exmoor Trim, we specialise in crafting high-quality interior components and accessories for Land Rover Defenders. Whether you're restoring a classic like David Flatman or upgrading your daily driver, our range of premium interiors, steering wheels, and custom accessories ensure every journey is a memorable one.
From rugged canvas hoods to luxurious leather seats, Exmoor Trim allows you to create a Defender that not only performs but also makes a statement.
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