British Body, American Heart: This Land Rover Sounds Like a Muscle Car and Pulls Like a Freight Train

The classic Discovery retains its all-wheel drive and familiar looks, but now delivers nearly twice the power.

U.S.-based Legacy Overland has unveiled an unconventional build based on the third-generation Land Rover Discovery, known stateside as the LR3. In place of the factory engines, the SUV now features a heavily tuned GM LS3 gasoline V8 displacing 6.8 liters. The engine produces 550 horsepower and 550 lb-ft of torque, nearly double the output of the early-2000s production model.

The new powerplant is paired with a GM 6L80 automatic transmission and has been fully integrated into the Land Rover’s original electronics. According to the builder, all factory systems have been retained, including permanent all-wheel drive and the vehicle’s British electronic architecture.

The conversion also includes drivetrain upgrades, custom driveshafts, reinforced frame crossmembers, and revised suspension and braking systems. Visually, the SUV remains largely unchanged, with additions limited to a winch, roof rack, rear ladder, and revised exhaust tips.

Inside, the original layout has been preserved, but the cabin now features updated gauges, a modernized infotainment system, improved audio, and leather-retrimmed seats. The project showcases a deep restomod approach, keeping the Discovery’s off-road character intact while delivering performance on par with today’s high-powered SUVs.