In an era when every boutique resto-modder with a wrench and an Instagram account is churning out six-figure Defender builds, Land Rover has decided to reclaim its throne with a factory-fresh take on the open-air icon. The all-new Classic Defender V8 Soft Top arrives as the latest project from Land Rover Classic, giving well-heeled enthusiasts a chance to experience the wind-in-your-hair thrills of the coveted NAS (North American Specification) 90 from the ’90s. This time around though, Land Rover has packed the beach cruiser with modern muscle under the hood and a price tag that makes Italian supercars look like reasonable purchases.
Better Than Aftermarket
Unlike the patchwork of parts you’d get from most custom shops, each Classic Defender V8 Soft Top begins life as a genuine 2012-2016 Defender 90 that undergoes a comprehensive factory rebuild. The result combines the unmistakable boxy character we all fell in love with, alongside modern engineering that addresses the original’s, ahem, “quirks.” This isn’t just another Defender with a V8 swap, it’s what the Defender could have been if Land Rover’s engineers had been given an unlimited budget and freed from the constraints of mass production.
The most obvious upgrade is, of course, the roof – or rather, the lack of one. The new canvas top comes in four colors (Black, Sand, Dark Khaki, and Navy) and features tie-downs and authentic webbing inspired by the final Defender that rolled off the production line in 2016. You can unzip and roll up the side and rear sections for the full convertible experience, or opt for the smaller “Bikini Hood” that only covers the front seats if you’re particularly cruel to your rear passengers. Either way, Land Rover has added extra tie-down points to ensure your expensive canvas doesn’t become an impromptu paraglider at highway speeds.
Proper Muscle, Modern Manners
The heart of this British brute is a naturally-aspirated 5.0-liter V8 producing 405 hp and 515 Nm of torque. That’s roughly four times the power of the agricultural diesel that powered many original Defenders. Paired with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, this combo launches the box-on-wheels to 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds, which is genuinely quick for anything with the aerodynamic properties of a garden shed.
Land Rover hasn’t just thrown power at the problem, though. The suspension receives a comprehensive overhaul with Eibach coil springs, Bilstein dampers, and anti-roll bars that aim to tame the original’s wayward handling while maintaining its legendary off-road capability. Four-piston Alcon brakes with 335mm front discs ensure this beast stops as well as it goes – something that couldn’t always be said for the original Defender’s heart-stopping braking performance.
Personalization Gone Wild
For those who find exclusivity in a vehicle that starts at £195,000 (around $260,000) insufficient, Land Rover offers nearly unlimited customization options. You can select from 49 standard paint colors or have them match any sample you provide. The interior gets a similar treatment with five monotone or eight duo-tone leather options including exotic-sounding choices like Caraway, Liberty Blue, and Garnet.
The most entertainingly unnecessary options include an onboard wine cooler and a custom surfboard rack (although we’re not mad at at the latter). Between the wheel choices (16-inch Wolf wheels or 18-inch Sawtooth alloys), interior trims, and exterior accessories, Land Rover claims you can create a truly one-of-a-kind Defender that perfectly matches your lifestyle, yacht, or country estate.
Spec Sheet
Engine: 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8
Power: 405 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: 515 Nm @ 5,000 rpm
Transmission: 8-speed automatic with Pistol Shifter
0-60 mph: 5.6 seconds
Top Speed: 106 mph
Suspension: Live beam axles with Eibach coil springs, Bilstein dampers, Eibach anti-roll bars
Brakes: Alcon Four-Piston calipers (335mm front discs, 300mm rear)
Wheels: 16-inch Wolf steel or 18-inch Sawtooth alloy
Soft Top Colors: Black (standard), Sand, Dark Khaki, Navy
Soft Top Styles: Full hood or “Bikini Hood”
Pricing & Availability
The Land Rover Classic Defender V8 Soft Top is available to order now with prices starting at £195,000 (~$260,000 USD) plus applicable taxes. The dedicated teams at Land Rover Classic in Coventry, UK and Essen, Germany will provide personalized support throughout the build process. Given the bespoke nature of each vehicle, expect a significant wait time before delivery.
Recap
Land Rover Classic Defender V8 Soft Top
Land Rover’s ultimate open-air icon returns with a 405 HP, factory-fresh engineering, and nearly limitless personalization options – all for those willing to spend supercar money on the definitive British off-roader.
