Defender Classic has introduced an upgrade program for 2007–2016 Defender 90 and 110 models, ranging from wheels and suspension components to a complete Works V8 conversion. The distinction for owners is that they can now submit their own eligible Defender for the V8 treatment. Land Rover Classic has previously built Works V8 vehicles from donor examples selected by its specialists.
The conversion is limited to 2012–2016 Defender 90 and 110 models. It replaces the diesel powertrain with a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter gasoline V8 producing 405 PS (about 399 hp) and 515 Nm (380 lb-ft) of torque, paired with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission. The work also includes a new chassis, a revised transmission tunnel and gear selector, Works V8 badging and a choice of 16-inch steel or optional 18-inch alloy wheels.
Defender Classic pairs the extra power with Bilstein dampers, Eibach coil springs, revised stabilizer bars, links and bushings. Four-piston Alcon calipers act on 335-mm front and 300-mm rear brake discs. Those components broadly follow the specification Land Rover Classic already uses for its Works V8 builds, but the new program lets an owner retain a particular vehicle through the transformation.
Owners of 2007–2016 Defenders can also select smaller upgrades, including wheel, suspension and brake packages. The Works Diesel package combines the chassis and brake changes with an ECU calibration for the Puma diesel engine, raising output to 155 PS (about 153 hp) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft). Vehicles receiving that package get Works badging, an owner certificate and a vehicle condition check.
Wheel and chassis packages can be purchased through Land Rover Classic Parts for independent installation or ordered through an authorized dealer. The more extensive work is carried out at Classic Works facilities in Coventry, England, and Essen, Germany. Defender Classic has not announced pricing for the Works V8 conversion or the upgrade packages; owners can inquire through Land Rover Classic.
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