Custom G-Wagons & Defenders Restoration
Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. To begin your ground-up restoration with The Reserve, we require 50% of the total build price at the time of signing. The remaining balance is split: 25% when your vehicle completes its full mechanical and cosmetic restoration at our facility in Poland, Europe, and the final 25% upon its arrival to our Moonachie, NJ showroom. Financing is also available through major banks — apply online here.

Every custom build completed by The Vantage Auto Reserve comes with a 1-year warranty. Our restorations are ground-up, body-off builds — we rebuild engines, replace suspension, service transmissions and differentials — so you’re getting a vehicle that performs better than new. The warranty reflects our confidence in that standard of craftsmanship.

Our team sources G-Wagons and Land Rover Defenders from across Europe, where these vehicles have been preserved in dry climates with excellent body and frame condition. Each donor car is hand-selected and shipped to our restoration facility in Poland, where a team with 150+ combined years of experience begins the full body-off rebuild. We consider the condition of the body and frame far more than mileage — since we’re rebuilding the motor, suspension, transmission, and drivetrain from the ground up anyway.

Yes — we accept a limited number of client-supplied donor vehicles each year for custom restoration. If you already own a G-Wagon or Defender you’d like transformed into a ground-up custom build, contact us to discuss eligibility. We’ll evaluate the body and frame condition before confirming acceptance into The Reserve program.

Custom builds through The Vantage Auto Reserve are priced based on the model, configuration, and customization selections you choose. Builds typically range depending on the base vehicle and scope of work — from interior material selection and roof style to engine upgrades and full LED conversion. We encourage you to start your build or contact our team directly for a personalized quote. Financing is available through major lenders.

The timeline for a ground-up custom build varies based on current demand and your specific configuration. Our restoration team in Poland performs a full body-off rebuild — including mechanical, electrical, and cosmetic work — which is a thorough process. Once your build begins, our team will keep you updated at each milestone: signing, completion in Europe, and arrival in New Jersey. Contact us for current lead times.

The customization options for a Reserve build are extensive. For G-Wagons, choose from 4-door, 2-door, short wheelbase convertible (soft top), or long wheelbase convertible configurations. For Defenders, we offer 2.5L turbo diesel, 200Tdi, and 300Tdi motors with optional turbocharger upgrades. Across both models, you can personalize: exterior color, roof rack, bumper style, headlights, wheels and tires, full LED conversion, A/C, heated seats, interior flooring (carpet or wood), leather/synthetic/cloth upholstery, dash wrap, and steering wheel wrap. Every detail is configured with one of our experienced design consultants.

A new Mercedes G-Class is a refined, modern SUV. A Reserve build is something different entirely: a vintage G-Wagon — typically from the 1980s or 1990s — that has been completely disassembled and rebuilt from the ground up to exceed modern standards of performance and reliability, while retaining the original’s iconic character, simplicity, and timeless silhouette. Every mechanical system is rebuilt or replaced, the interior is built to your exact spec, and the result is a one-of-a-kind vehicle you won’t find on any dealer lot. It’s not just a car — it’s a commission.

Yes. Financing is available for custom G-Wagon and Defender builds through several major banks and lenders. Whether you prefer to finance the full build amount or a portion of it, our team can walk you through available options. Apply for financing here or call us at 973-815-0500 Ext 2.

Absolutely. The Vantage Auto Reserve delivers completed custom builds nationwide. Once your vehicle arrives at our Moonachie, NJ facility, we coordinate white-glove delivery to your door or arrange a personal pickup experience at our showroom — whichever you prefer. We have experience shipping to buyers across the U.S. and can walk you through the logistics.

Yes — and we encourage it. Seeing a finished Reserve build in person is the best way to appreciate the craftsmanship. Call us at 973-815-0500 Ext 2 to schedule a private showing at our Moonachie, NJ showroom. Our team will have a completed build ready for you to inspect, sit in, and experience firsthand. Showings are by appointment only.

We handle everything. Title, registration, and all U.S. customs documentation are managed by our team. Your completed build arrives ready to drive, with all paperwork in order. You won’t need to navigate import paperwork or DMV logistics on your own.

Yes. Vantage Auto specializes in custom G-Wagon builds and custom and restored Land Rover Defenders, focusing on craftsmanship, reliability, and modern drivability while preserving iconic design.

Many custom G-Wagon builds and restored Defenders include modern comfort and technology upgrades, such as updated infotainment, air conditioning, power steering, improved braking systems, and enhanced suspension components. Features vary by build and are listed with each vehicle.

The short answer is no. Since we perform a full mechanical restoration to each vehicle, we sell the mileage is actually one of the last things we consider when evaluating a donor vehicle. We’re rebuilding motors, replacing suspension, and so on so what’s most important is the condition of the body and frame.

Trade-ins are welcome and may be applied toward the purchase of a custom G-Wagon, restored Defender, or another vehicle from our inventory, subject to evaluation.