Land Rover rebuilds Classic Defender V8 Soft Top: doesn’t come cheap

Soft Top versions

Soft Top versions of the classic Defender are highly sought after. With this new addition, enthusiasts now have the opportunity to own a personalized copy of this legendary model – straight from the official address for classic Defenders. The Soft Top is available exclusively as a short-wheelbase ’90’. It is the first Defender Soft Top since 2016 and follows the introduction of the new Works Bespoke service in 2024.

Donor car

Each Classic Defender V8 Soft Top is created from hundreds of hours of craftsmanship by Land Rover Classic’s experienced engineers. Each one starts with a carefully selected donor car from 2012-2016, which is completely improved and rebuilt. The result is a unique model that meets OEM standards and is designed with luxury, performance and longevity in mind.

Showing color

The canvas soft top was developed especially for this model. It fits perfectly and is available in four colors: standard in Black, optional in Sand, Dark Khaki or Navy. The design is inspired by the soft top of the last Defender that rolled off the assembly line in 2016, complete with authentic mounting loops and webbing. The side and rear sections unzip and roll up for an open driving experience while simultaneously protecting against the elements. Additional attachment points keep the canvas securely in place, even at high speeds.

Softtop frame

The soft-top frame was designed specifically for this model and reinforced with elements inspired by the iconic NAS (North American Specification) 90. In addition, a smaller “Bikini Hood,” which protects only the front seats, is available in the same range of colors. A palette of 49 paint colors allows customers to put together their ideal look. Those desiring a completely unique color can have a personalized paint scheme developed through the Works Bespoke match-to-sample service.

Even more choice

Customers shape their Soft Top with a wide selection of exterior and interior personalizations. Among other things, they choose the design of the grille, door handles and the ‘DEFENDER’ wordmark on the hood. For rims, there is a choice of 16-inch Wolf rims or 18-inch Sawtooth rims – with the Wolf rims available in Black or Limestone. The interior offers a choice of five mono-tone and eight duo-tone leather themes, with colors such as Caraway, Liberty Blue and Garnet. In addition, there are virtually unlimited customization options. Special accessories and features, such as a built-in wine cooler or a custom surfboard rack, allow you to put together unique models that perfectly complement any lifestyle.

Powerful 5.0-liter V8 engine

Each Classic Defender V8 Soft Top is equipped with the Land Rover 5.0-liter V8 gasoline engine, good for 297 kW/405 hp and 515 Nm of torque. It is mated to an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission for smooth performance and instant response.

Braking system

The power of the V8 merges with an improved suspension and upgraded brakes. Tuned specifically for the unique characteristics of the 90 Soft Top, the suspension combines classic Defender capabilities with high ride comfort in any terrain. Thanks to modified springs, Eibach stabilizer bars and Bilstein shock absorbers – which have been extensively tested and developed – the suspension fully meets OEM specifications. The braking system has been upgraded with four-piston Alcon calipers. The brake discs measure 335 mm front and 300 mm rear, offering powerful, confidence-inspiring braking performance.

Price Classic Defender V8 Soft Top

Specialist teams at Land Rover Classic in Coventry (UK) and Essen (Germany) offer personalized support. The Classic Defender V8 Soft Top is available from £195,000, excluding applicable local taxes. Each comes with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty with no mileage restriction.