2018 marks the 70th year of Land Rover, and to celebrate, they're rolling out a limited edition of the legendary Defender.
Don't expect this model to be a repeat of the original, though—nearly every performance and tech aspect has been updated.
The result? The most powerful, fastest Defender yet. And some would argue the most luxurious.
Tim Hannig, Jaguar Land Rover Classic Director, said: "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."
Underneath the hood is where the magic lies. The standard 5.0-liter V8 powertrain produces 405 PS and 515 Nm of torque, which is a vast boost from the original model's 122 PS and 360 Nm.
The naturally aspirated engine pairs with an eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox that implements sport mode and quickshift response.
Thanks to this marriage, the Defender rockets from 0-60 mph in just 5.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 106 mph—insane ratings coming from an SUV.
To enhance overall driving dynamics, this Land Rover special edition features a reconfigured suspension with improved springs and dampers as well as upgraded brakes.
18-inch Sawtooth alloy wheels and all-terrain tires provide ample support no matter where the road takes you, while a contrasting Santorini black roof and front grille complete the look.
Inside, Land Rover Classic's DAB Classic Radio will be the main event. This is complemented by surround sound speakers, smartphone integration and GPS navigation.
Windsor leather trim blankets the headlining, dashboard and door panels, as Recaro sports seats provide a bolstered ride.
"The idea of reintroducing a V8 Defender was something we were discussing as far back as 2014," Hannig comments. "We knew the demand was there for a powerful and fast Defender; the Land Rover authenticity is the ultimate finishing touch for discerning clients purchasing these collector's edition Defenders."
Officially named the Defender Works V8 70th Edition, this will be the first V8 Defender since 1998, and it's sure to live up to everyone's expectations.
A two-door Defender 90 and a four-door Defender 110 will be available, with the ability to carry four passengers and seven passengers respectively. The numbers correlate to the wheelbase measurement.
Only 150 models in total will be manufactured by the experts in Jaguar Land Rover Classic Works, the homestead for Land Rover conversions.
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