The automaker is offering a new option that allows 90 and 110 owners to give their rigs a new lease on life.After the discontinuation of the Defender in 2016, Land Rover's Classic division has kept the iconic 4×4 alive through its Works service.It hasn't been afraid to mix it up, either. From OCTA-inspired options to bright double-cab builds and vibrant PRS guitars, the automaker has taken the Defender in all sorts of directions.Even so, I think Land Rover's latest initiative stands to be even more impactful.The V8 conversion headlines Land Rover's Defender Classic offerings. - Credit: Land RoverA Defender heart transplantThat's because the Classic division is now offering an upgrade program for Defender 90 and 110 models built from 2007 to 2016, through which existing owners can transform their own vehicles.Previously, the Works service had been available to new builds, so the option to retrofit personal rigs makes for a meaningful addition to the catalog.Along with the V8, the conversion brings refinements like an 8-speed transmission, Bilstein dampers and an overhauled Alcon braking system. - Credit: Land RoverAll the more so because Land Rover is willing to get under the hood. Through the program, drivers of 2012 to 2016 Defender 90 and 110 models can opt for a Works V8 powertrain that swaps out the stock engine in favor of a 5.0-liter V8 producing 405 horsepower.And that's hardly the extent of what the conversion delivers. In addition to the new heart, Land Rover fits an 8-speed ZF transmission and a variety of impactful handling upgrades. They span everything from a new chassis to upgraded Bilstein dampers, Eibach coil springs, anti‑roll bars, links and bushes, alongside an overhauled Alcon braking system.Land Rover's new program services existing owners rather than requiring that buyers build anew. - Credit: Land RoverFurthermore, Land Rover's Works V8 treatment brings exclusive badging and re-engineered interior and mechanical enhancements, including the transmission tunnel and gear selector.Flexible options and installsBeyond the core powertrain swap, the program breaks the treatment out into individual enhancement packages developed by Land Rover's Classic experts.The interior brings refinements like a re-engineered transmission tunnel and shifter. - Credit: Land RoverIt's effectively an à la carte alternative to the Works V8 conversion. From cosmetics like 16-inch steel wheels and diamond-turned finishes to performance enhancements such as four-piston brakes and Bilstein dampers, it allows for a more measured upgrade pathway.The ability to take a more piecemeal approach is bound to be a difference-maker, as it means interested parties don't have to commit to waiting months for a build. That's especially true since Land Rover is willing to be still more flexible.Owners can have specialists install the upgrades at one of Land Rover's dedicated Classic Works facilities. - Credit: Land RoverIn addition to offering installation via specialist technicians at its dedicated Classic Works facilities in the UK and Germany, it will also let clients order cosmetic and dynamic packages directly through the Land Rover Classic Parts website for self‑fitment (or at authorized dealers).Availability and pricingAccording to Land Rover's announcement, the upgrade program is for Defender 90 and 110 models built from 2007 to 2016, and the V8 conversion is specifically for 90 and 110 models built from 2012 to 2016.Pricing has not yet been announced, but you can head to Land Rover's V8 conversion website to learn more.About the Author: Gray is an associate editor at Gear Patrol, covering cars, motorcycles and anything else with wheels. When he's not chasing the latest industry news, he's probably wrenching on one of many projects. For better or worse, he believes classics make perfectly practical daily drivers.
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