JLR Classic Restores the Classic Defender with a V8 Engine

The original Land Rover Defender continues to boast a strong fan following across the globe, despite being axed from the production line in 2016. However, the customers continued to demand the custom-built Defender, therefore, Land Rover’s Works Bespoke stepped in and revived the previous generation Defender (2012-16). 

This iteration has been revived by offering updated features, enhanced chassis, and a wide range of customisation options. Additionally, there are two body styles available on the Classic Defender V8 by Works Bespoke: 90 and 110. 

The commissions will include “remastered by hand in the UK” by Land Rover engineers and they will be related to the donor cars manufactured between 2012 and 2016. In addition to restoration, the Defender cars will undergo long hours of “painstaking work”, as far as the re-engineering is concerned. 

Cosmetic Changes

Interested prospects can choose a bespoke colour option from Land Rover’s Heritage, Contemporary, Premium or SV Metallic paint jobs for the Classic Defender’s exterior. The roof can also be had with contrasting paint along with silver or black inserts. 

The company also offers optional grille designs: Heritage, Standard and Adventure), complemented by modern LED headlights.

Accessories also have a long list, which includes offerings, such as side steps, a roof rack, a winch, an expedition cage, and a ladder, to name a few.  

There is also an optional Adventure Pack, which offers a roof-mounted tent, and Ply Guys Camper Conversion, which turns the SUV into a real camper. 

Moreover, there is an optional 16-inch Wolf and an 18-inch Sawtooth alloy wheel. 

Cabin Updates

Land Rover hasn’t ignored the interior, as it has now been reupholstered. Customers can choose a colour scheme from 8 duotone and 5 monotone leather treatment options. There is an optional Recaro-branded seats and plusher Premium seats. 

While retaining its original appearance, the centre console now houses a 3.5-inch touchscreen unit with DAB radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and navigation. 

In addition to updates, the brand has utilised an updated gear selector and gloss black inlays. 

Specifications

As the Classic Defender V8 name implies, this rugged SUV is powered by a V8 engine. It has a JLR-built 5.0-litre, naturally aspirated V8 that produces 400bhp and 515Nm of peak torque. This engine is paired with a ZF-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission, coupled with an all-wheel-drive setup. 

Reportedly, this Defender can sprint from 0-100 in 5.6 seconds before reaching a top speed of 170km/h. 

In terms of the suspension setup, the company has re-tuned it. That said, this model now boasts Bilstein dampers, Eibach coil springs, and anti-roll bars. In addition, there is an Alcon-sourced front- and rear-disc brakes, measuring 335mm and 300mm, respectively. 

Pricing

If we compare it with other Defender variants, the Works Bespoke Classic Defender V8 commands a high price. Its price starts from USD 251,345 (roughly Rs 2.11 crore) for the 4-seater Defender 90, while the 5-seater Defender 110 and 7-seater Defender 110 are priced at USD 263,090 (roughly Rs 2.20 crore) and USD 269,700 (roughly Rs 2.26 crore). 

These prices exclude taxes and optional features.  

The Classic Defender V8 is set to mark its public debut amidst the 2024 Goodwood Revival in September 2024.