The Defender Beach Runner is just about as much fun as you can have with your clothes on.

There are a few automakers that build vehicles that might compete with ECD Automotive’s Defender Beach Runner, but few can compete with its actual production. That’s because, unlike their bespoke vehicles, the Defender Beach Runner is actually meant for a wider . The one you’re looking at its number 001. In time, there will be several – all based on this restored/new Defender 110 that’s prepped for wealthy enthusiast.

Recently, ECD Automotive invited me out for a brief taste of the Beach Runner…and I was immediately in love. It’s everything that’s fun and decadent about off-roading, and the beach culture – all wrapped in a fire-breathing, 455 horsepower V8 package. You can even bring the family, as it’s built to hold a total of eight!

Take note that it’s extremely expensive, though…

ECD Automotive sourced an old Defender 110 chassis, and strips it to bare bones. They then add all-new components throughout. From the ground-up they sweat the details when hand-crafting the interior and components. ECD is aiming at building two per month for the foreseeable future.

In the end, you have a vehicle that can be sold to the elite few, while inspiring enthusiasts. Prices start at an eye-watering $249,999. Even with that high price tag, ECD is serious about shifting higher volumes. It is a publicly traded company, and has a new 100,000-square-foot facility in which it assembles the ground-up built vehicles. In the near future, they will offer a few more non-British options that you can build up, if you have the cash.

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the least expensive thing ECD Automotive Design builds is a $149,000 Defender 90. That vehicle is effectively stripped compared to the Beach Runner, or some of the company’s more premium models.

Driving the Defender Beach Runner

This is a giant toy. That’s the best way to put it. No, there is no hardtop version, and this doesn’t feel like a mall crawler. Sure, you can get a canvas top, but it’s not like a Wrangler’s folding roof. This is meant for extreme weather only, as the Beach Runner is meant specifically for open-top driving.

Fortunately, I was in West Palm Beach, so driving with the top down is kind of awesome. You can clearly hear the bark of the LT1 (the only engine provided), but it’s only harsh on full tilt. The steel springs are spongy enough, and it handles like a truck. That is to say, it’s no Maserati MC1. As long as you’re aware, then the driving sensation will be that much more rewarding.

It sure gets a lot of looks as you bound down the road.

Sadly, I only had a few minutes to drive, and none of it was on sand, or off-road. As such, I’m hoping to get another opportunity soon. Still, I was able to get a feel for what this vehicle truly is. Without a doubt, it’s an old Defender 110 on steroids, wearing a tuxedo you can swim in.

Just nuts! If you’re curious for a bullet-point breakdown of what you get for the money, here are more details:

Mechanical specs:

• Chevrolet GM LT1 V8
• 8 Speed Automatic Transmission
• 4WD Full Time w/low|high range
• Quad Exhaust Pack System
• Heavy Duty Axles
• Standard Fuel Tank
• Land Rover Coil Spring Suspension
• Windshield Fold Down
• Locking Differentials Available
• Power Fold Side Steps

Interior details:

• ECD Exclusive Custom Dash
• Vintage Style Guages 
• Recaro Seats
• Android w/Car Play Stereo
• Undocking Sound System
• Chrome Custom Switches
• Raptor Lined Inside Tub/Flooring
• Custom Leather Console Wrapped w/ Veneer Inserts, 6 Cup Holders

Exterior features:

• 16-inch Wolf Steel Wheels
• Full Set Checkers in Body Color
• Optimill Fender Air Intake in Body Color
• Pull Style Handles
• Optimill Hinges in Body Color
• 6 Point Roll Cage
• Heritage Style Lights
• 1 Round Work Light
• Rear NAS Defender Bumper in Silver
• ECD Badging
• 21-in-1 Accessory Kit
• Air Compressor with External Line included
• Tire Pressure Monitor System