Behold the new (classic) Defender!

If you're a fan of the classic Defender, then you'd better have a sit-down. Land Rover Classic has released new models and there are two to choose from, including a wide variety of options. Break that piggy bank open!

Words: Wilhelm Lutjeharms

Images: Supplied

When the new (current) Land Rover Defender was launched, it quickly became evident that it was not only a completely new model, but also that it had significantly moved away from what the outgoing model represented.

The previous Defender might be seen by most as an automotive dinosaur, but it had incredibly passionate enthusiasts and owners who loved its rugged, adventurous spirit. The fact that it was archaic in many respects actually added to its charm, they would argue.

In fact, the enthusiasm for this iconic 4x4 has been so strong that British billionaire Sir James Ratcliffe even founded a completely new car company, Ineos, to launch what he thought is a better representation of a modern Defender, the Grenadier.

However, Land Rover also wants a cut of this modern, but classic pie. The result is the Classic Defender V8, launched by its Works Bespoke department. 

Donor vehicles are carefully selected by the company and will range from 2012 to 2016 models. Apart from a full strip-down restoration and modernisation, each vehicle is fitted with a naturally-aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine that delivers 298 kW and 515 N.m. Torque is sent to the wheels via an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission. The 4-wheel drive system remains.

Upgrades include performance-focused four-piston Alcon brakes, the front discs measuring 335 mm in size and the rears 300 mm. The suspension system has also been upgraded with revised Eibach coil spring rates, anti-roll bars and Bilstein dampers.

Options

As expected, clients can choose from a variety of options. Land Rover says that “clients can specify a fully restored Classic Defender V8 to reflect their personality, with an extended choice of materials, interior and exterior colour combinations, finishes, accessories, and upgrades.” Wheel options include the 16-inch Wolf or an 18-inch Sawtooth design. 

Move to the cabin, and while it is pure (old-school) Defender in its architecture, the modernisation is also obvious, and appreciated. Buyers can choose between a “premium” seat option and a more supportive Recaro alternative. 

There are a number of exterior colours to choose from, but for the true adventurers the functional optional features will be more important. Side steps are available alongside other accessories including a roof rack, expedition cage, ladder and a winch for those venturing further off-road. Atop the Classic Defender V8, clients can fit either a set of classic-style roof-mounted spotlights, or a full roof-mounted LED light bar.

In total, each car is subjected to hundreds of hours of labour and “fully remastered from the ground-up to the finest possible detail, re-engineered and upgraded, so that clients can be confident in the vehicle’s longevity, strength, and enduring quality”.

Pricing

As is to be expected, these off-roaders won’t come cheap, but they will undoubtedly appeal to a healthy number of buyers. The Classic Defender V8 by Works Bespoke starts from R4.465 million (ex VAT) for the four-seat 90 Station Wagon and R4.69 million for the five-seat 110 Station Wagon. A seven-seat 110 Station Wagon is available from R4.8 million. Note that South African availability has not been confirmed and that these converted prices exclude import duties etc.

If you just want to dream and play around, visit the Classic Defender V8 configurator to explore the broad range of options.

Paul Barritt the director of Land Rover Classic, had the following to say:With Works Bespoke, we are giving clients the opportunity to create their perfect Classic Defender V8, a vehicle that will suit their exact lifestyle. Every vehicle is lovingly crafted, with creativity the only limit when it comes to personalising each vehicle to the owner’s desired specification. From start to finish, clients of Works Bespoke will be given an experience like no other, creating their ultimate Classic Defender V8.”


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