The first-generation Defender, which was discontinued in 2016, has returned with a completely different look. The Classic Defender V8 Soft Top, which Land Rover personally restored, has shed its past roughness and been reborn as a work of art with luxury and powerful performance.
On April 25, Land Rover unveiled the Classic Defender V8 Soft Top, which was restored based on the Defender produced between 2012 and 2016.
This model is not a simple reproduction, but a limited edition that was given new life through the hands of the Land Rover Classic Works Bespoke team in the UK.
The Classic Defender V8 Soft Top starts at 195,000 GBP (259,603 USD), out pricing even the Bentley Bentayga, a symbol of luxury in the high-end SUV market. It is not just a restored old car. The Classic Defender V8 Soft Top is a custom work of art handcrafted by Land Rover craftsmen, which explains its outrageous price tag.
What’s more, it’s about two to three times more expensive than the current Defender models on sale. Despite having the same name, the classic Defender is a completely different class of vehicle, armed with rarity, emotion, and bespoke service.
Consumers are creating a customized piece that reflects their taste, not just a simple car. You can freely set up 49 body colors, grills, and door handles, and you can choose from four colors for the roof: black, dark khaki, navy, and sand. A special fixing device that enhances safety during high-speed driving is also provided as standard.
An Icon From the Past, Reborn with Modern Performance
This restored model is not just about the restored exterior. The powertrain is a combination of a 5.0-liter V8 naturally aspirated gasoline engine and a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, generating a maximum output of 405 horsepower and a maximum torque of 52.5 kg.m.
In addition, Bilstein dampers, Eibach springs, and anti-roll bars are installed as standard, significantly enhancing off-road performance. Braking power has also been upgraded to the Alcon 4P brake system.
Why a Sudden Comeback?
The first-generation Defender was originally based on a military vehicle and was first released for civilian use in 1983.
It was loved by off-road enthusiasts around the world for its angular body and excellent off-road driving ability, but it was discontinued in 2016 due to insufficient environmental regulations and safety standards. After that, the second generation with a unibody design was released in 2020, but it left a sense of regret for those who were looking for the unique emotion of the old Defender.
A Land Rover representative described the project not merely as a restoration, but as a transformation into a piece of art that bridges heritage with modern design, as the company revived the original Defender to meet growing demand and expand into a new market.
The Land Rover Classic Defender V8 Soft Top is a special experience that only a select few can enjoy, combining modern technology and craftsmanship with off-road legend. It is exciting to see what new story this limited edition model, which carries the glory of the past, will tell in the future.
