The original Land Rover Defender went out of production in 2016, but the boxy British off-roader just refuses to disappear… not that we’re complaining. For enthusiasts who still prefer its old-school construction and unmistakable styling, Land Rover has now created a rather expensive way to keep the legend alive..
Australian buyers can now commission a Defender Classic V8 through the manufacturer’s Works Bespoke program. It combines the familiar ladder-frame construction with a naturally aspirated V8, modernized mechanical components, and extensive personalization options.
Unlike the current Defender, which uses a modern unibody platform, these vehicles start life as genuine Solihull-built Defenders from 2012 to 2016. They’re then stripped down and rebuilt from the ground up by Land Rover’s Classic specialists, preserving their original identity while receiving substantial mechanical upgrades.
As reported by CarsGuide, Australian commissions start at approximately AU$398,000 (US$280,000), before delivery and local taxes. That’s an extraordinary amount of money for an old Defender, although there’s much more involved than a conventional restoration.
A Proper V8 Under The Hood
Under the hood, we find the build’s centerpiece in the form of Land Rover’s naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8, producing 400 horsepower and 515 Nm (380 lb-ft) of torque. An eight-speed ZF automatic replaces the original transmission, giving the classic off-roader a very different character.
The upgrades extend to four-piston Alcon brakes, while an available suspension package incorporates Bilstein dampers, Eibach springs, and revised anti-roll bars. The aim is to make the traditional Defender more manageable without abandoning its rugged foundations.
Three Body Styles and Almost Endless Choices
Buyers can choose between the 90 Station Wagon, 90 Soft Top, and longer 110 Station Wagon, with additional variants planned. Paint colors, grille designs, wheels, roof finishes, and leather upholstery can all be specified individually.
Modern conveniences include LED headlights and a 4.8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An optional nine-inch display and expedition accessories, including a camper conversion and rooftop tent, broaden the possibilities.
The Sunset Gold Defender Shows What’s Possible
Land Rover has also created a Sunset Gold 90 Soft Top to demonstrate the program’s capabilities. As detailed in Esquire, the vehicle appeared at Australia’s Surf & Sound festival in Manly and is available for purchase.
Its open-air configuration recalls the earliest Land Rovers, while the V8 and upgraded running gear promise an experience far removed from the original utility vehicles.
An Expensive Way to Keep a Legend Alive
Australian availability expands the Works Bespoke program rather than introducing an entirely new production Defender. Customers work with Classic specialists in Coventry or Essen to finalize their individual commissions.
At nearly AU$400,000 before additional charges, this is firmly collector territory. Still, there’s something appealing about a manufacturer continuing to rebuild its most recognizable off-roader for people who would rather drive the original shape than a modern interpretation.