Land Rover’s Popular Model Defender
Restored After Receiving a First-Generation Donation
Classic Car Enthusiasts Are Going Wild
On August 28, Land Rover unveiled the Land Rover Defender Classic, a meticulously restored version of its iconic first-generation Defender. Initially launched in 1983, the Defender was produced as a military-focused SUV until 2016. Initially, the vehicle was known as the Land Rover 90 and Land Rover 110, referring to its short and long body versions. It wasn’t until the 1990s that Defender was officially adopted, with models designated Defender 90 and Defender 110.
The Defender began as Land Rover’s flagship model, a status it maintained until the introduction of the Range Rover in the 1970s, aimed at the American market. Despite minimal design changes over its 30-year production run, the Defender remained a favorite, selling around 70,000 units annually before its discontinuation in 2016.
The powertrain remains the same
while incorporating the latest technology in detail
The newly restored Defender Classic, produced by the Land Rover Classic Works Bespoke department, revives the original model with modern enhancements. Initially offered with a 2.2L diesel engine or a 5.0L V8 supercharged gasoline engine, the restored version now exclusively features the 5.0L V8 supercharged engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This setup delivers 405 horsepower and 52.53 kg.m of torque. Both the short-body 90 and long-body 110 versions are available.
Each Defender Classic is handcrafted, preserving the classic look of the first-generation model while incorporating contemporary performance upgrades. The vehicle is equipped with Bilstein dampers, Eibach springs, and anti-roll bars to ensure a smooth ride on winding roads. Enhanced braking power is provided by 4-piston Alton brakes with 335 mm front discs and 300 mm rear discs.
The first-generation exterior is preserved, but the interior is modern.
While the exterior retains its vintage charm, the interior has been updated with modern amenities. The redesigned seats are basic leather for comfort or sportier Recaro options for the first row. The traditional radio has been replaced with a 3.5-inch touchscreen deck that offers navigation, radio, and Bluetooth connectivity.
The Defender Classic maintains its classic frame but features modern upgrades such as LED headlights and options for 16-inch or 18-inch wheels. Buyers can also choose from various paint colors, allowing for the personalization of their classic vehicle.
However, this craftsmanship comes at a premium. The Elemental three-door Defender 90 is priced around £190,000, while the Defender 110 costs approximately £199,000. This high cost reflects the extensive handcrafting and compliance with stricter carbon emissions and safety regulations recently imposed by the European Union.
In comparison, the Defender Octa, launched in July, was priced at about £145,300 in the UK, highlighting the added expense of the Defender Classic’s bespoke restoration process.
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