Defender V8 Returns

Land Rover’s New Revamp

The rebirth of a classic, the Land Rover Defender V8 Soft Top, is turning heads as Land Rover Classic indulges fans of the iconic Defender with a revamped restomod. Originally crafted between 2012-2016, this Defender 90 enjoys a second chance at life thanks to meticulous enhancements.

Specifications

Under the hood, the updated engine is a 5.0-liter V8 powerhouse, pushing 405 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. This beast is mated to a slick eight-speed automatic transmission, seamlessly delivering power to an all-wheel-drive setup with a two-speed transfer case. This configuration enables a sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds, with speeds capped at 106 mph.

Designs and Options

When it comes to aesthetics, Land Rover doesn’t disappoint. The Soft Top offers 49 color finishes, and if that’s not enough, there’s an option for a custom match-to-sample color service. Choose between 16-inch steel wheels or larger 18-inch alloys in striking Black or Limestone.

Customization extends inside with leather choices aplenty, featuring five monotone and eight two-tone options from Liberty Blue to Garnet. Fancy a surfboard rack or perhaps an onboard wine cooler? It’s all possible with this bespoke build.

Roof Styles

The soft top options add flair to functionality, with Black, Dark Khaki, Navy, or Sand color choices. For those seeking a more elemental drive, the sides and rear can be unzipped for an open-air experience while zipping along the coast. The minimalist Bikini roof focuses its protective embrace solely over the front seats.

Performance Upgrades

Driving dynamics haven’t been ignored. Thanks to revamped Alcon brakes and an updated suspension featuring Eibach anti-roll bars, Bilstein dampers, and altered spring rates, the Defender promises a balanced yet thrilling ride.

The Price Tag

Here’s where it stings a bit – prices start at £195,000, translating to around $260,170 in the U.S. landscape, and this doesn’t include local taxes. With a price gap of about £50,000 ($66,730) over new models like the Defender OCTA, one only gets a one-year unlimited mileage warranty.

Driving Experience

On the road, the Defender V8 Soft Top gives more than just a nod to nostalgia; it provides a thrilling drive with heart-pounding power and a visceral connection to the classic Land Rover DNA. Compared to newer models, it feels raw but decisively powerful, much like driving an old-school muscle car that’s been touched up with the latest tech. It’s a blend of the primal joy of past eras and modern engineering excellence.