Even though the new Land Rover Defender has yet to debut, Land Rover has decided to start production again of the iconic Defender. Land Rover has announced the release of the very limited Defender Works V8, which is being produced to celebrate the automaker’s 70th anniversary.
Only 150 units will be produced, but if you’re lucky enough to get your hands on one, you won’t be disappointed. The Defender Works V8 is the most powerful engine ever with a 5.0-liter naturally-aspirated petrol V8 powertrain produces 399 horsepower and 379 lb-ft. of torque. The V8 makes the Defender Works V8 the fastest Defender ever with a 060- mph time of only 5.6 seconds. The top speed has increased to 106 mph.
Tim Hannig, Jaguar Land Rover Classic’s Director stated, “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 idea of reintroducing a V8 Defender was something we were discussing as far back as 2014, when we were still building the Defender in Solihull. We knew the demand was there for a powerful and fast Defender; the Land Rover authenticity is the ultimate finishing touch for discerning clients purchasing these collector’s edition Defenders.”
The V8 is mated to an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission with sport mode. The special Defender also gets upgraded brakes and a suspension, plus exclusive 18-inch diamond-turned Sawtooth alloy wheels.
Eight colors will be available. Both 90 and 110 wheelbase Defender Works V8 versions will be available to purchase direct with prices starting from £150,000 ($207,000) for a 90 in the UK. Unfortunately Land Rover has no plans to offer the Defender Works V8 in the U.S.
The next-generation Land Rover Defender is expected to debut at some point this year.
Source: Land Rover