land rover launches V8 edition defender to celebrate 70th anniversary

land rover announces a limited-edition high-performance version of the iconic ‘defender’, with 150 V8-powered examples re-engineered to celebrate the marque’s 70th anniversary in 2018. the ‘defender works V8’ pays homage to the early high-powered engines in both the ‘series iii stage 1 V8’ from 1979 and subsequent ‘defender’ 4x4s,including the 50th anniversary edition, which are highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors today.

all images © jaguar land rover

the ‘defender works V8’ is the most powerful and fastest version that land rover has ever created. The 5.0-litre naturally-aspirated petrol V8 powertrain produces 405 ps and 515 Nm of torque, a considerable jump from the standard 122 ps and 360 Nm. the ‘defender works V8’ will accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 5.6sec, while top speed is increased to 106 mph. the V8 powertrain will be fitted to 150 specially-selected and re-engineered ‘defenders’ for the 70th edition, complemented by an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission with ‘sport’ mode, uprated brakes and handling kit (springs, dampers and anti-roll bars), plus exclusive 18-inch diamond-turned sawtooth alloy wheels and ‘265/65 R18’ all-terrain tyres.

eight standard body colors include two satin finishes – contrasting with a santorini black roof, wheel arches and front grille – finished with machined aluminum door handles, fuel filler cap and ‘defender’ bonnet lettering. a comprehensive lighting upgrade includes bi-LED headlamps. full windsor leather interior trim covers the dashboard, door panels, headlining and recaro sports seats. land rover’s own classic infotainment system is also fitted.

tim hannig, jaguar land rover classic director, comments, ‘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.’