V8-Powered Land Rover Defender Restomod Costs More Than A Range Rover

There’s no shortage of Land Rover Defender restomods to choose from. Many of the world’s best firms offer a Defender restomod of some kind, ranging from electric conversions to powerful Corvette-engined examples with sumptuous interiors. Even Land Rover has gotten in on the trend by reviving the Classic as a Works Bespoke project. But if you want something a bit different, Kingsley Re-Engineered has unveiled something new at the prestigious Salon Privé event.

The definitive Defender series, as it’s known, is available in both D90 and D110 configurations, providing buyers with two body styles to choose from. Before we get into the finer details, let’s look at what powers the restomodded Landy. Unlike most firms that elect to fit a modern powerplant, Kingsley offers an “overhauled, original powertrain” as standard, which will appeal to those who prefer to preserve authenticity.

Plenty Of Engines To Choose From, Including Powerful V8s

That said, to cater to those with a penchant for speed, there’s also a new Kingsley high-torque 4.2-liter V8. With 220 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, the Defender can travel at speeds above 100 mph and accelerate to 60 mph in 9.5 seconds. Chevrolet-sourced LS3 and LT1 V8 engines will also be available, and Kingsley notes it can also carry out four/eight-speed automatic gearbox conversions at extra cost. To keep the extra power in check, the suspension and braking systems have been upgraded, too.

Revisions include electronically controlled active damping suspension and Stage 1 brakes with larger calipers on the front axle. 18-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires round out the changes. The short-wheelbase D90 is more agile than its D110 counterpart, which makes it a boon to drive in small towns and tricky off-road situations. Despite its compact size, it can be modified to fit between two and six seats. The D110 can accommodate up to nine occupants, offers a plusher ride quality, and more interior space.

Highly Customizable With Bespoke Options

Fans of the original Defender adore the styling of the long-lived off-roader. That’s why Kingsley has been clever enough not to fiddle with the aesthetics. However, customers can personalize their cars in just about any way they can imagine. There are myriad options to wade through, including several roof choices – panoramic glass, open-top bikini cover, hard top, canvas – and plenty of luxuries, such as heated seats and various sound systems.

This customization extends to the paintwork, with the firm claiming each Kingsley Defender will boast “bespoke exterior color combinations.” Customers can select from a standard selection of colors, but custom finishes are available at extra cost. It’s the same story inside, where the definitive Defender receives Nappa leather and Alcantara upholstery. The press demonstrator showcased at Salon Privé has an upgraded instrument cluster and a smaller steering wheel. Modern features such as Apple CarPlay are also available, highlighting the breadth of personalization on offer.

That’s A Big Price Tag, But If You’ve Got The Money…

As for pricing, the Kingsley definitive Defender costs a pretty penny. With a base price of £140,000 ($184,000), it’s a lot more expensive than a new Range Rover, but for those who want something exclusive, nothing else will do. It’s also worth noting that the Land Rover Defender Classic by Works Bespoke costs even more – $250,000. All examples will be hand-built at the company’s headquarters in Oxfordshire, United Kingdom.