Words by Marco Rallo / Photos by Dite Communication

From renderings to reality, the leap is never a given. How many times have we been presented with optimistic promises of extraordinary cars that never made it beyond their concept stage? In the case of the Vinile-reimagined Range Rover Classic, however, that transition has become real, tangible and fully functional. The first running prototype made its official debut at the Monaco Yacht Show, marking the moment in which a vision ceased to be an ambitious project and became something capable of stirring genuine emotion once again.

This is far more than a styling exercise and certainly not a concept destined to remain on a designer’s desk. We are looking at a real automobile, completed in Vinile’s Maranello workshops, which inaugurates a limited production run of just fifteen examples. More importantly, it introduces a different approach to the high-end restomod world, where the past is not simply restored but reinterpreted through a contemporary language shaped by research, sensitivity and a strong sense of identity.

Vinile itself was conceived as something far broader than an automotive company. The decision to unveil the project at the Monaco Yacht Show perfectly reflects this multidisciplinary philosophy, embracing worlds such as yachting, aerospace, design and even music. It is, in fact, from music that the project’s original inspiration is drawn: the concept of remastering. Just as an iconic vinyl record can be remastered while preserving its soul, Vinile starts with an automotive icon and presents it in a new, more contemporary form without compromising its original essence.

Leading the project are three entrepreneurs with more than thirty years of experience spanning the automotive industry, motorsport, aerospace and finance. Supporting them is a highly specialized organization of around one hundred professionals, including engineers, designers and test drivers. The entire operation is backed by five production facilities in Maranello, covering a combined area of more than 10,000 square metres. This structure allows every stage of development — from the initial concept to final assembly — to be managed entirely in-house.

The Range Rover Classic by Vinile is the first tangible expression of this philosophy. Its proportions remain faithful to the original 1970 model, yet every surface has been carefully redesigned with a disciplined and coherent approach. The launch vehicle features a metallic green body paired with a gloss black roof, a combination that perfectly balances elegance and character. The body panels have been hand-finished to achieve greater precision, while the bumpers, bonnet and doors have all been redesigned to create cleaner lines and stronger visual continuity.

The front end introduces new three-dimensional elements, including redesigned grilles, while preserving the original headlamp layout, now upgraded with modern LED technology. Details also play a crucial role in defining the car’s identity, from the round fog lamps and revised door mirrors to the slim gloss black trim accented with yellow highlights running along the bodywork. At the rear, the fusion of style and innovation is expressed through the harmonious integration of the diffuser, lighting units, spoiler and a distinctive white poplar burl wood insert, creating a direct visual link with the cabin.

It is inside the cabin, however, that the vehicle reaches its highest level of expression. The interior has been conceived as a sensory environment, combining comfort with a refined appreciation for premium materials. Baxter leather, used extensively across the seats and interior panels, creates an atmosphere of understated sophistication. Carefully selected colour palettes complement handcrafted solid wood inserts, resulting in a space that feels more like a contemporary lounge than a traditional automotive interior. Technology is present, but never intrusive, blending seamlessly into the overall design. The infotainment system revolves around a high-definition touchscreen, while a beautifully machined aluminium controller provides intuitive access to the main functions. Even the lighting and switchgear draw inspiration from aviation, favouring tactile interaction and exceptional perceived quality. Distinctive details include the option to integrate the owner’s personal wristwatch into the centre of the dashboard.

Considerable attention has also been devoted to the acoustic experience, perfectly in keeping with the brand’s identity. The in-house developed audio system combines carefully selected components to deliver precise, immersive sound capable of revealing every musical nuance. It is easy to imagine yourself driving along the roads outside Pavullo on a warm summer afternoon, one arm resting casually out of the window, while Eagles may provide the perfect soundtrack.

Mechanically, the original V8 engine has been comprehensively re-engineered, increasing output to approximately 200 horsepower. The suspension has also been updated to improve balance and stability, while new wheels and tyres enhance the vehicle’s road presence without compromising its original character. Each of the fifteen examples will be unique and fully customizable, reinforcing the project’s bespoke philosophy. At the same time, Vinile continues to develop new ideas across different creative fields, strengthening its identity as a multidisciplinary platform capable of reinterpreting the past to shape new forms of contemporary luxury.

Ultimately, we often find ourselves repeating the same idea: our origins are among the most valuable assets we possess when it comes to enriching the present. This time, however, that philosophy has not been applied to an iconic supercar, but to a vehicle that many of us have likely driven — or perhaps even owned. If not us, then certainly our parents. Regardless of any nostalgic connection, a 1970s Range Rover will undoubtedly cost far less than the €310,000 starting price of Vinile’s reinterpretation. Yet its limitless personalization, remarkable adaptabilit, and the exclusivity of a handcrafted product make this Modena-built Range Rover the perfect object to spark curiosity — and perhaps a touch of envy — among the most discerning members at your local polo club.