CHEVY LS3 vs BMW 330D M57 - WHICH IS THE BEST LAND ROVER DEFENDER ENGINE SWAP? | MAHKER EP057
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- Опубліковано 8 лют 2025
- Petrol or Diesel? V8 or Inline 6? More horsepower or better torque? Dave is always being asked - "Which engine should a put in my Defender conversion?" Today we try (try) to answer that question by pitting Ethos & Ninja against each other - a Chevy LS3 V8 automatic vs our latest BMW 300D M57 manual Defender 90 build. Which do you think is the best 90?
We also see Bruno breaking down an axel, and Christian is fitting a new ORE wheel carrier & rear footstep to a Defender 110.
Help us get this video to 1000 like and we'll put together the drag race! 🏁
Message us on socials about our new drive flanges!
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Keep on commenting and liking it really helps!
Here at Mahker, Land Rover Defender conversion and restoration is what we do. From our workshop near Whitchurch in Shropshire we bring you the most epic builds.
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1000 likes and we’ll drag race them. Remember to LIKE the video!
Can you do one on safety? Everyone seems to repeat the idea that "old cars are just dangerous because they don't have crumplezones." Driving into a brick wall is one thing, but I'm still thinking it is safer to be in a Mahker Rover if it crashed with a Tesla.
A few videos back we did a bit of an in depth on roll cages but ok we’ll take a look to see what we can do
Great passion, thanks. However, a drag race is vaguely interesting but I’d be more interested in comparing them towing, handling, low down torque and most importantly off road performance.
@@wearemahker so you sell to us customers?
The video already has 2k likes
I saved a few of these videos to watch with my son because I like to watch a few of them. He stayed home sick today and we get to watch all these. Thank you again I love this correction we love this.
Every week you get great comments and rightly so! But I would say this is your best episode to date, from what must seem boring to you daily maintenance like swivel joints which to a diy defender fixer is incredibly interesting to the in-depth comparison on engines we would never normally get to experience it’s great and your passion for the cars and your products it’s infectious. Just wanted to say thanks from a defender lover and I hope you get the you tube success you deserve with all this effort when your incredibly busy, recon Ninja would storm it !
Thanks Oli, appreciate the feedback
It's simple to feel your passion for these builds. Exceptional work mate! I never thought I'd be easily convinced on something as fast as I have been. Bucketlist stuff right here.
Thanks So much 😎
I'm really happy with my 110 2.4 but if...........and that's probably why most of us watch this. Great stuff.
Gkr performance Glen is a master when it comes to tuning bmw diesels, he helped me get great results and i seen this Defender there when he was working on it, great combo for off roader 👍
He sure is an he best in the business!!
I bought a 1986 ,110 defender, all my money to get it, its done 4000miles , its like a time warp, now I have to sell it , this video breaks my heart. Well done for the amazing work you do
Thank you
M57 for the win - You guys seriously need an online shop, i'm ready to give you all my money!
Ok ok we’re listening
Drooling over the quality most of all. Love every part of the build, helps us all dream bigger. Americans may find the 3 liter diesels from the USA’s big 3 achieve great results as well.
Glad you are enjoying following along
Really wish we had vehicles like these in Australia. Simply brilliant vehicles.
We do have them in Australia.
Love the sounds of the LS but I'd still go for the BMW. The one thing that really comes across in your videos is the safety aspect. It's great. As we know these machines can be death traps.
As above I wish I had the funds for you to build my truck up. 😭
Thanks for the comments, glad you find the videos enjoyable
@@ColeenWestjust google a pic of a defender that has rolled or the side crashed into almost no protection with a standard defender
@@112boatman
I've always thought a Safety Devices roll cage (over the screen) is good enough. Are you saying that it needs to be a full cage? Can you provide a UA-cam link, please (as any other links will get your post removed by UA-cam). Cheers.
The LS3 sounds absolutely amazing - and more economical than the 4.0 V8 in my Disco 😂 but the torque of that diesel sounds seriously impressive too !
Absolute 🔥
Well if you desire to work with honesty and integrity put your order in.
I have never seen the person or the vehicles before today and I’m not quite sure which impressed me most with no effort.
Very good luck for a prosperous future.
I built my own V8 conversion into a mitsubishi 2014 L200. Its a lexus 1uzfe 4.0. so not a scratch on what you have done but fair bloody play!!
Great video guys. Would love to see some driving features on the channel
We’ll have to talk nicely to the owners but we’ll see what we can do
It is already a thousand like ,much love from Kenya good work mehker
OMG we just hit 1000 likes!! I better call the owners 📞
Art on 4 wheels. Sublime.
We try our best Pat hope you’re well ?
Can not wait for the drag race!!!
It’s coming!
Nice to see plenty of space should you need to work on it in the middle of nowhere, but then you can't these days unless you have a scanner with you to even find out what's gone wrong in the first place. Please do a 2strk Detroit diesel conversion, best of both worlds, tons of torque, best sound ever with that blower on it and no electronics. 👍
Certainly one to consider
LS3 for me 👌
I want to see a tdv8 in a defender!
Thanks Dave for a great interesting video personally i would love a 90 with a 330D M57 RED metallic but all i can do is dream thanks again !
You never know Stephen, keep saving the pennies!
I wish I could own one of these. They are just beauty!
The interior of the Grey looks a lovely place to be, but could the top of the dash run parallel to the top of the Dakota instrument panel, rather than maintaining the round Puma top?
you are going to help me build one.. big ups
Beautiful Work.
LS3 all Day long.
I suspect will be a few £ more than the m57.
Yes, we’ll look at sone build costs in an upcoming video
@@wearemahker yes please so I can start saving! Love your work guys!
Should be less depending how you source it. Less acessories, weight, complexity and long term you can work on it at home. BMW engine? Lot of specialised tools needed.
My series landy I had the lace up covers on the front axle. Pain in the arse to fit though but works
We remember them well
If I was may yet 1 day this is the man I thrust cheers Dave happy 2 see your passion for l rovers
I’m in Australia if I have the money I’ll have the m57 in a heart beat in a 110 please love this channel so glad a stumbled across it !
That supercharger issue on the vogue is fairly common same issue can be found on the 3.0 supercharged Jaguar f types etc. had many apart. Especially fun when there’s been a coolant leak usually from the plastic connector on the oil cooler in the v and the bolts holding the supercharger down corrode in and snap.
This supercharger is from the Eaton TVS family of chargers, it is indeed a common fault , of which is almost identical to the one we Discovered in a previous episode regarding the same part issue, the drive isolator coupling. infact, the coupling and mating flanges between the Cheverolet LSA, and this Range Rover, are Identical.
Viewers that have seen the Episode where we covered this issue in some detail, will recognise that, that was filmed after the engine had covered not even 2k miles, and the wear on the shaft was visable even on camera. Now, the example Dave shows here, is the same Design, family of charger units, but with another 100K miles or so.
Look at the difference in wear ! Not only that, the colour of the wear areas, and the state of what used to be grease, contaminated with hardened oxide Dust.
Once the replacement parts arrive, Jeremy will have it surgically re-assembled, tested and awaiting collection in no time💪.
I'd take the M57 every time. That cast iron block is legendary, also, choo choo turbo noises 😂
M57 for me as that's what I plan on doing in the future. Need to get a defender first of all!
You won’t be disappointed, it’s a brilliant combination
Great video! I like how you did the coolant hoses on the LS. I did mine with AN20 fittings and braided hose which looks good, but the custom bent pipes just look clean.
Blimey Dave, not a question I’d even contemplated, but I am a diesel head really, so has to be Ninja for me…although I do love the noise Ethos makes…my race prediction would be Ninja off the line, (but if over a 1/4 mile), I think Ethos would haul it back to cross the line first - assuming 2 competent drivers of similar ability ? I so hope you get the thousand likes !!! Brilliant episode and your clients/friends are very lucky fellas !
Thanks for the comments Steve
LOL, OM606... Done!
The mastic in the RR engine is probably from JLR dealer work.
Possibly
What kind of screen you’ve put on the Grey, is it for multimedia and how you attached it there? Thank you!
I would need an absolute fortune to have you build my dream Defender. It would probably cost several hundred thousand pounds and I can assure you that you haven't yet built anything like it.
Come on, let’s have the details. We’re interested to see your build spec
@@wearemahker Ill second that... Try us !? 😋
@@wearemahker The list is quite exhaustive and I couldn't possibly write it all down here from the top of my head, especially as I have PTSD and memory trouble. However, this is a dream that has been building up since I left the Royal Engineers in 93. I loved driving Land Rover Defenders and have dreamed of owning one ever since, but never had the means, until 2013, when I foolishly didn't purchase a Dormobile Defender, but travelled by air instead.
Anyhow, my dream is a 6x6 Land Rover Defender Pop-Top camper.
I cannot stand the hump on the bonnet, for me that's Ford, not Land Rover.
Safety is paramount, so I would like a Bowler spaceframe chassis. I cannot bear the thought of rust, so everything will be "Before n'after" Kleen Tect.
The engine must be entirely without electronics, fuel efficient and run on filtered used cooking oil and helped by a hydrogen producing thingy.
The carosserie will be ultra light, made of Kevlar and sprayed with Line-X Ultra.
The winch will be mounted underneath the chassis in the centre, will be a PTO winch for both front and rear.
Wheels will be 33inch BF Goodrich M4 with green gunge anti puncture and Hutchinson rims and run flat thingies.
Suspension will be King Springs with X-Eng helper springs and double (V shaped) long travel shock absorbers.
Lifetime oil filter and Kleen oil filter.
Double Schnorkel.
The list goes on and on and on, but basically I want an engine and transmission etc that is so reliable and efficient and strong it won't break down. An engine that will work flawlessly in the highest heat, the coldest arctic freeze, the highest water level, the worst dust bowl and sand storm.. Likewise I would like the entire vehicle to be insulated from the highest heat and coldest freeze. A vehicle that is rust proof, dust proof, waterproof, soundproof, fireproof, tamper/burgle/theft proof. Etc....
Self sealing fuel tanks. Exterior sump.
Hole in the side for a chimney so I can have a real fire inside my Titanium Pomoly Mini Dweller stove.
I would like to be able to produce my own water on board with a Watergen apparatus (see Watergen.com) or use reverse osmosis for sea water or be able to pump and filter water from lakes and rivers etc.
I could add a lot more to all that if my memory allowed and it may sound crazy to some, but that's my dream.
@@daniellee8565 don't want much then 😂
Love it! That’s a pretty big shopping list, keep us updated on the progress
Would really like to send my Puma over and have it done.
One thing, not hating on the lights, but I wish someone would come up with nice and subtle LED brake, side, indicators. Got to be possible so it looks less aftermarket.
They do we use OEM look self colour versions on nearly everything it’s the best chassis look
@@wearemahker For sure you are doing an outstanding job, all your vehicles look on point 🙌 and the self coloured lights are an authentic detail. I'm just after something with solid single source illumination and does not have the chrome appearance.
On another note, those AP calipers, look killer. The M57 would be my choice.
Watching from Australia. Bloody brilliant. 👍 love the BMW motor. The Mrs has an X3. Would love it in a 110:or a 130🙄🙏
It’s such a great engine
Hey Dave f****** outstanding episode if I had a choice of which one I would have M57 all the way as it would be my daily driver. The LS3 must be pushing more torque than M57 🤔 if only I had the money I would send you too TD5'S 😁 LS3 will sound awesome in the Highlands of Scotland come on up Dave! 😆👌🏻👍🏻
Soon Phil soon too busy building big boys toys
Alright Dave !!! I watch every video, great work ethic, great builds, anyone on the negitive tip, piss off . The builds are getting cleaner and better
We only strive for the best ! I’m gutted I didn’t get chance to feature we had clients back to back this Thursday and my customers come first. Much love Dave.
M57 Ninja awesome. Ethos an amazing build … building the best 😀🚗
Always our goal! Cheers John 😎
Beautiful Defenders! What kind of revs is the M57 doing at 70mph? I would love to have you guys build me a daily driver but it would need to be someway quiet at motorway speeds and not screaming.
Come over and let’s have a chat. We build daily drivers too. Drop us an email info@mahker.com and mention contact off UA-cam
What side steps are those on the black 90
What a watch love it 👊
Awesome thanks for watching
The best one is any one with a 300 or 200 Tdi in it! The Defender is not a Defender without one. As much as I love your Defenders, I really don't like putting Chevy and BMW engines in an English 4x4. For me, that's how it is - each to their own!
I'm right there with you!
Those old defender Engines are outdated. The 330D M57 is an awesome engine for the Defender.
True to each his own, though not related to a land rover(love them I will definitely get one) I have a retro sedan 86 want it restomoded yet still maintain its looks ,love the OEM engine but want to have a more powerful engine.
Nice way to advertise the illegal number plates on the L9 RDH black Defender...... 🤣
Could you not leave a more thoughtful comment 🤨
LS swap is SICK!!!
It sure is!
Another Hoofing video royal
Cheers!
The last place a landy would find itself is a drag strip but than thats me.
Obviously two in this video did.
Bravoooooo guys !!!
I ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ it
How much cost one like these ??
Thanks so much. Everything is bespoke but we will do a prices video very soon
I Like m57 for fuel economy, which is awsome in overlander
Lovely defenders mate 👌🏼
Thank you!
Is there going to be a competition to count up how many times you say guy’s In this video?🤪😂
Isn’t that how UA-cam works? Hey you guys?? 🤣
Bloody brilliant!
Love this video 👍
Ls3 for sure
Two fantastic landys, wish I had the money 🙂👌❤️🇬🇧🇬🇧
We’re very lucky to have worked on these
Did you ever drag them?
I would love to see BMW copy that design and make a truck that looks like that. It would be 🔥 🔥 🔥!!!!
Great video and brilliant build mate. What's the cost to build a similar set up with the M57 BMW engine on a Defender 110SW?
I don't tow anything and I would love to have a 6 automatic over the manual as a daily driver.
Looking forward to hearing from you soon. Cheers
Ethos ❤
What’s the red interior from?
I love the LS...
get that helcat in a defender!
I think a white version of Ninja would be a good build 😜🤣
But what would we call it?
3 days and you have 807 likes. Get ready team, drag race is a certainty!
We better start contacting the owners 😂
We better start contacting the owners 😂
Have to say that m57 is the one I would lay a bunch of money down on
Hi Dave & Co... I was watching ur UA-cam video.. my 7 year daughter was watching something beside me.. when she heard the v8 petrol engine.. my daughter asked what was that.. then said cool trucks/jeeps..
Your daughter needs to visit our shop 👌👌she’s a cool girl with good taste 😎
What about an OM606 swap
Hi. I have an LR4, 3.0 SC V6, year 2014 and I live in Qatar! So I am facing 2 problems at the same time, owning an LR, and in Qatar there are no good mechanics. My LR4 went into a workshop to fix the temperature gauge as it was going up n down crazily. Anyhow the complete engine head was rebuilt but only to breakdown completely after driving 60km.
Now, instead of replacing the total engine with the original LR4 engine, I am thinking of swapping it with an LS engine.
Could you kindly inform if I would need to replace any other parts on the vehicle for example AC, Fuel LInes, Other computers for terrains, etc...
Thanks
AK
I was trying to find the wheels you’re rocking on Ethos on your website shop but was unsuccessful. How much would 5 pcs be and how would I go about ordering them. Menu thanks.
Hi Peter Please drop me a email to info@mahker.com
We have a set in stock currently.
Fan from THE USA ✌🏼
What would these cost
What are your thoughts on the Mercedes Benz OM606 turbo?
Did the drag race happen
Not yet. Weathers been too rubbish but it’s still in the pipeline
Turbo the ls3 problem solved. In Australia it's very common
Interesting to know
We’ve supercharged a few already but myself & sam are keen to Turbo one for sure 💪Dave.
I will call you one day for 330D plan sooner than later
Always happy to, or drop us an email or Instagram message and say you’ve come from UA-cam 🤓
Hi Dave I like rock sliders can you tell me the make of them please 👍
We make them please email me info@mahker.com
i was like what is that defender damn she is beauty herself
Diesal 👍🏻🍻
What is the gear in the m57 engine
What do you mean by the blade's?
Pity you couldn't throw in a M52 2.8 in the mix to compare.
Ref the M57 is there an induction pipe needed to force air in ?
Great looking vehicles 👍
Never had an issue with requiring one the defender front end is far from air tight
where can 1 get that digital Cluster/cockpit?
LS3 all day, it has ~620nm torque, NA reliability, no BMW crap, just do the needle bearings in the rockers and upgrade the lifters maybe to link bar or similar. Timing chain is also a good preventative one but I'm talking for race use... so it'd last forever on the road with those mods. Cam the LS3 and it should juuuust edge out the bimmer up top as it makes much more HP. Torque is great until it falls on its face. TQ + HP is king.. LS3.
16 valves and you can work on it in your own garage. Sounds better than a strangled turbo engine..
Lots of positives
@@wearemahker Simplicity is king. Updated the comment with some more feedback. Have you done needle bearings/lifters/timing chain in the ls3? Needle bearings in the rockers would be the most common failure point then the lifters rotating, link bars will stop that. Timing chain mostly high rpm stuff.
Great video! Thanks
p.s. I have an LS3 powered, caged S2000, bit different animal lol
Would love to put them side by side in a comparison
I really love what you do and an absolutely amazing job it seems on anything you do!
Personally I couldn’t afford to get my Defender 110 Td5 to a LS3 spec so I’ll gladly stay put with her but I do have a Discovery 4 5.0 litre V8 to drive and enjoy and when ever I want the open top feel I get the Series 3 Swb out for a drive they basically are my daily driver’s so I’m happy 😎😎😎
Keep up the good work thanks
Well done and I’m curious about the drag race!
🤞 for the drag race
I suspect the LS3 will win handsomely.
Let’s see
A well tuned OM606 Sur!
How do you get 20, 30, n 40, mpg with an ls3 or 3.0 BMW diesel that's tuned my 3.0crd jeep with its om642 Mercedes engine dits at low 20z to 30mpg on a steady run
It can be done
is the basic m57 swap kit same for the RRC?
If money is no object, how long to build one of these?
2-4 months
300tdi obvs 😀
Naaaaaah 🤣
those rock sliders / side steps on the ninja are awesome!! who makes them?
Imagine cruising hwy 1 up the coast in California in Ethos
Wouldn’t that be a dream
I have Range Rover Sport 2010 can i swap into BMW M57 Engine ?
can we get these in the US?
21:36 speedometer which brand and model?
Do you remember when Land Rover were the poor man’s 4x4 . Not anymore 😢.
Proper exciting 4x4 now!
No? They were always expensive. At no point was a Landrover a cheaper alternative to a Daihatsu Fourtrak.
Still poo 💩