Defender lives on: Land Rover launched V8 Edition to celebrate 70th Anniversary

The high performance version of the iconic is a limited edition with up to 150 specially selected and re-engineered V8 powertrain fitted Defenders.

For enthusiasts of the original Series III Stage 1 V8 model of 1979, or even the 50th anniversary edition, Defender Works V8 is the fastest, most powerful Land Rover created to date. The naturally aspirated petrol VV8 powertrain is 5.0 liters and produces 405PS and 515 Nm of torque. It has the ability to accelerate from 0-60mph in 5.6secs and reaches a top speed of 106 mph. The Defender Works V8 comes with an eight speed ZF automatic transmission with sport mode, uprated brakes and handling kit (springs, dampers and anti-roll bars), plus exclusive 18-inch diamond-turned Sawtooth alloy wheels and 265/65 R18 all-terrain tires.

 

Photo: Courtesy of Land Rover

The exterior comes in eight standard body colors, that include two satin body finishes – contrasting with a Santorini Black roof, wheel arches and front grille – finished with machined aluminum door handles, fuel filler cap and Defender bonnet lettering. The interior is full Windsor leather trim covering the dashboard, door panels, headlining and Recaro sports seats fitted also with Land Rover Classic’s own Classic Infotainment System.

According to Jaguar Land Rover Classic Director Tim Hannig, the idea of reintroducing the V8 Defender had been discussed as far back as 2014 while the Defender was being built in Solihull. He says, “It’s fitting that we’ve been able to release the full potential of the iconic Defender, whose much-loved shape remains synonymous with Land Rover, 70 years since it was seen in public for the first time.”

The 90 an 11o wheelbase Defender Works V8 will be available to purchase direct from Land Rover Classic with prices starting from £150,000 in the UK. Unfortunately, the Defender Works V8 will not be available for enthusiasts in the US & Canada. US & Canada residents interested in an experience similar to the Defender works V8 can check out the Land Rover Discovery in the SE, HSE, AND HSE Luxury models.