Palm Beach Defenders

Born from a shared passion for classic cars, adventure… and the iconic Land Rover Defender

Peter and Jan’s story began over a glass of wine overlooking the 18th hole of Dainfern Golf Estate, South Africa, where two lifelong enthusiasts reflected on their love for cars, wine, travel and the African Bush. In that moment, they realized that the unique nature of the Defender transcended borders – a universal symbol of both exploration and timeless craftsmanship.

In a conversation spanning decades of Defender history, from the iconic Series models to the last of the Heritage Editions that marked the final chapter of Land Rover’s production of this legendary vehicle, one particular model consistently captured their admiration. Its combination of rarity and unmatched engineering made it stand apart from the rest…

the 2.8i Defender, a South African gem, was a true masterpiece of design.

From Classic to Iconic

A Defender brought to life through care, precision, and a deep appreciation for the craft

Having spent over three decades immersed in the world of motor clubs and restorations, and having brought over 10 cars back to life, Peter’s deep connection with Defenders is undeniable. Owning four of these rugged vehicles, along with a V8 safari truck stationed at his Bela Bela farm, he had truly put these machines to the test. Every game drive across Africa’s unforgiving terrain was a testament to the Defender’s indomitable spirit. Peter knew these vehicles inside and out—each scratch, each creak, every inch of its design.

Jan’s story ran parallel in many ways. A seasoned racer in the BMW series, he had worked with the very same M52 engine that powered the Defenders. His admiration for both brands became the perfect foundation for a new venture—a vision that would eventually give birth to Palm Beach Defenders.

In the months that followed, they immersed themselves in research, scouring the market for the perfect cars. Their criterion was simple yet strict: only dry-climate, inland vehicles that had been well-maintained and were in impeccable, drivable condition. They knew that what would emerge from this painstaking work would be more than just a restored vehicle; it would be a testament to their shared passion and expertise…