Although the original Land Rover Defender was unceremoniously ripped from U.S. shores in the late 1990s, it lived on in other parts of the world. As you well know, it was discontinued just a couple of years ago ahead of the all-new Defender.
Turns out, Land Rover isn’t quite done with the old Defender. It’s bringing it back from the annals of history and reviving it for just 25 lucky customers.
Photo: Land Rover
The resurrected Defender is called the Defender Works V8 Trophy. It’s offered in either 90 or 110 wheelbase, but that’s your only option. All examples will be finished in Eastnor Yellow paint with contrasting Narvik Black paintwork features on the wheel arches, hood, and rear door. Interior is finished with black Windsor leather interior (replete with yellow accent stitching) and a Land Rover Classic’s own Classic Infotainment System with integrated navigation and mobile device connectivity is also fitted.
READ MORE: DOES THE NEW DEFENDER 110 HOLD UP TO THE LEGACY OF THE ORIGINAL?
Further upgrades include comprehensive uprated suspension, steering and braking packages, all-terrain kit includes a front winch, multi-point expedition cage, roof rack, underbody protection, A-bar, raised air intake, LED spotlights and mud-terrain tires.
Power comes from a 405-horsepower 5.0-liter gasoline V8 engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission from ZF. The cheapest of the bunch, the 90, starts at $271,030.50. Land Rover didn’t say how much the 110 station wagon goes for.
Photo: Land Rover
More than just one of the last Defenders, owners also get to compete in an exclusive three-day adventure at Eastnor Castle in Herefordshire. And it seems this event isn’t optional, as Land Rover stated in its press release that this will be the first time owners get to drive their vehicles. It stands to reason that you have to attend the event. I mean, why wouldn’t you?
Is this resurrection of the last Defender an admission that the new one isn’t as special as we’d all hoped? Perhaps it’s a way to undercut the INEOS Grenadier? Or maybe it’s just a shameless money grab. I guess it doesn’t matter because you can’t get one in the U.S. anyhow.
Header image: Land Rover
