Defender Works V8 launched 18 | 01 | 2018
LAND ROVER HAS marked the 70th anniversary of the company by introducing a limited run of a V8-powered Defender, two years after the iconic model went out of production. (Related: New Jaguar Land Rover centre opens in Scotland)
Just 150 examples of the new Defender Works V8 — the fastest and most powerful version ever produced — will be built by the Land Rover Classic division. Available to order at Scottish dealerships, prices start at £150,000. No, that’s not a misprint: it does start at £150,000. That’s a whopping £45,000 more than a Range Rover V8 Autobiography.
The first V8 Defender that Land Rover has produced for 20 years, the Works V8 is a comprehensively re-engineered Collector’s Edition powered by a 400bhp 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8. That makes it just a tad more powerful than the otherwise standard 120bhp four-cylinder diesel found in the Defender.
The V8 is mated to an eight-speed ZF auto box, which also includes a sports mode. As a result, the new model will hit 60mph from standstill in an eye-watering — certainly for a Defender — 5.6 seconds. Top speed is limited to 106mph.
Available as either a short-wheelbase 90, or long-wheelbase 110, the Works V8 also benefits from exclusive 18in alloys fitted with all-terrain tyres, uprated brakes, and a handling kit which includes bespoke springs, dampers and anti-roll bars.
And though the speed and performance levels of the Works V8 have been significantly improve, the Defender’s iconic rugged, go-anywhere abilities haven’t been diminished. Permanent all-wheel drive, with a two-speed transfer box, remains standard, as do heavy-duty front and rear differentials. Live axles front and rear also remain on the limited edition V8.
Buyers can choose from eight external colours, including two satin finishes. There’s also a contrasting black roof, wheelarches and front grille. And while the Works V8 gets Bi-LED headlights, the bonnet lettering, fuel filler cap and door handles are all finished in machined aluminium.
Inside the cabin, the dashboard, door panels and headlining are trimmed in leather, while leather Recaro sports seats are fitted, along with — shock, horror — a new infotainment system.
Related: Land Rover Discovery is Scottish Car of the Year
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Jim McGill