Land Rover’s Defender Classic V8 programme is now available to commission in Australia, allowing buyers to order a heavily reworked version of the original Defender with a naturally aspirated V8 and a choice of bespoke finishes.
Each vehicle is built using an original Solihull-produced Defender donor from 2012 to 2016, which is then stripped back and re-engineered by the specialist Defender Classic team. Available body styles include the 90 Station Wagon, 90 Soft Top and 110 Station Wagon, with further variants planned.
Power comes from a genuine Land Rover 5.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol V8 producing 298kW and 515Nm. It is paired with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, all-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case. Land Rover quotes an estimated 0-100km/h time of 5.9 seconds for the 90 and 6.1 seconds for the 110, with a 170km/h top speed.
The mechanical upgrades extend to the chassis, with Eibach springs and anti-roll bars, Bilstein dampers and four-piston Alcon brakes. The front discs measure 335mm, while the rear discs are 300mm.
Personalisation is a major part of the programme. Buyers can choose from established colour palettes or request a custom paint match, alongside different grille designs, exterior finishes, wheel options and hood configurations. The interior can be trimmed in a range of leather colours and combinations, with optional Premium or Recaro seating.
Despite retaining its classic appearance, the cabin gains modern conveniences including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, satellite navigation and a touchscreen infotainment system. A larger nine-inch display and reversing camera are also available.
For buyers planning to venture further off-road, optional equipment includes a roof rack, expedition cage, winch and an Explorer Pack with camper conversion and roof-mounted tent options.
Pricing starts at £209,000, excluding delivery and local taxes, which equates to around AUD$400,000. One imagines that the upper limit will depend completely on the tastes of the well-heeled purchaser.
