Not every aging vehicle needs to be replaced by a modern model to remain a rewarding companion. For cars with distinctive designs and enduring appeal, a thoughtful restoration can breathe new life into them without sacrificing the character that made them special.

That philosophy lies at the heart of Nova, a 1993 Range Rover Classic long-wheelbase model restored and upgraded by Legacy Overland.

The specialist workshop has previously earned attention for its classic off-road restoration projects, including the Discovery Series II Project Earnie. With Nova, however, the company chose not to undertake a complete powertrain transformation. Instead, it focused on improving reliability, driving performance and everyday usability.

Perhaps the most interesting aspect of Nova is what remains beneath its hood.

Rather than installing a modern engine, as some restoration specialists do, Legacy Overland decided to preserve the Range Rover's original V8.

When new, the engine produced approximately 200 horsepower. That figure may seem modest compared with today's SUVs, but it remains adequate for ordinary driving, particularly for enthusiasts who value the distinctive driving experience and mechanical character of a classic vehicle.

To ensure the SUV could continue operating reliably after more than three decades, Legacy Overland thoroughly inspected and serviced its powertrain.

Key components, including the radiator, expansion tank, hoses, sensors and thermostat, were replaced.

The chassis also received extensive attention. New springs and shock absorbers were installed at all four corners, while the brake discs and calipers were replaced. The axles and differentials were serviced to improve reliability, particularly when driving over rough terrain.

These modifications preserve the fundamental character of the Range Rover Classic while making Nova better suited to the demands of contemporary motoring.

The Range Rover Classic is instantly recognizable for its boxy silhouette, upright body and relatively slender pillars.

For Nova, Legacy Overland selected Midnight Atlantic Blue, a deep, understated shade that gives the SUV an elegant appearance.

The paintwork is complemented by 16-inch five-spoke wheels finished in the same color as the body and fitted with Goodyear Wrangler all-terrain tires.

At the front, a custom bumper, auxiliary lights and a restored badge help complete the vehicle's refreshed appearance.

Inside, Nova has undergone a substantial transformation, combining premium materials with features better suited to modern expectations.

The cabin is upholstered in genuine leather in two contrasting shades, Butter Rum and Deep Ocean. The material covers the seats, dashboard and door panels, creating a cohesive interior design.

To add visual contrast, Legacy Overland fitted Deep Ocean Wilton wool carpeting, navy blue seat belts and a light cream headliner.

The carefully chosen color palette creates an atmosphere of understated luxury while remaining faithful to the Range Rover's traditional interior styling.

Yet Nova's transformation goes beyond cosmetic improvements.

The entertainment system has been upgraded with an infotainment display supporting Apple CarPlay, a 400-watt amplifier and four-inch Kicker speakers.

A digital rearview mirror has also been added, bringing another familiar modern convenience to an SUV originally built in 1993.

Together, these carefully selected upgrades demonstrate how a classic vehicle can become more practical and enjoyable to drive without losing the design and mechanical character that made it an icon.