Land Rover anniversary edition combines history with high power
Land Rover has a busy year ahead, as it should: The brand is celebrating its 70th anniversary. Part of the festivities involves the launch of a special edition model, called the 405PS Defender Works V8 70th Edition.
Only 150 vehicles will be built and all will be equipped with V-8 engines. It's meant to pay homage to the early high-powered engines in both the Series III Stage 1 Defender V8 from 1979, as well as subsequent Defenders including the 50th Anniversary Edition, which are all highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors today.
This new version is the most powerful and fastest Defender Land Rover has ever created. The 5.0-liter, naturally aspirated V-8 powertrain produces 405 horsepower and 515 foot-pounds of torque, which will accelerate the off-road, boxy brute from zero -to-60 mph in 5.6 seconds, while top speed will be 106 mph.
The V-8 powertrain will be fitted to 150 re-engineered Defenders for the 70th Edition, complemented by an eight-speed automatic transmission with sport mode, upgraded brakes and handling kit (springs, dampers and anti-roll bars), plus exclusive 18-inch, diamond-turned, alloy wheels with all-terrain tires.
The body can be had in eight standard colors that include two satin finishes. All contrast with a Santorini Black roof, wheel arches and front grille, and machined aluminum door handles, fuel filler cap and Defender hood lettering.
The lighting is upgraded with bi-LED headlamps and inside there's Windsor leather covering the dashboard, door panels, headlining and Recaro sports seats. The vehicle is also marked by special 70th Edition badging, both outside and inside.
Both 90-inch and 110-inch wheelbase (distance between front and rear tires) Defender Works V8 derivatives will be available to purchase direct from Land Rover Classic in England and imported to the states, with prices starting at $212,000.
A select number of components inspired by the Defender Works V8 will also be available to purchase soon from Land Rover Classic, including power upgrades for Land Rover's TDCi diesel engine, and high-performance suspension and brake kits.
Seventy years is a long time, but it's clear the folks at Land Rover don't just want to pop a cork and reminisce; they want customers to continue to tackle trails in their trucks.
Share your car's story with Matt at auto@dailyherald.com.