Remember the Camel Trophy events in the 1980s? Originally conceived as a marketing exercise for the tobacco brand, the event became known for remarkable feats of getting across unthinkable terrain. The brand most associated with it was Land Rover, and the company has just announced 25 more Defender Works V8s – only this time with added adventure. This is the Land Rover Defender Works V8 Trophy.
Based on the Defender Works V8 that marked the model’s 70th anniversary in 2018, the Trophy is powered by that monstrous 399bhp, 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine, with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission helping to get that power to the ground. Of course, the Trophy features a range of upgrades specifically tailored for off-road use, including a front winch, a multi-point expedition cage, a roof rack, underbody protection, an A-bar, a raised air intake, LED spotlights and mud-terrain tyres.
Just 25 examples of the Defender Works V8 Trophy, in 90 and 110 body styles, will be exclusively finished in Eastnor Yellow paint colour with matching 16-inch steel wheels. Contrasting Narvik Black paintwork features on the wheelarches, bonnet and rear door. The Trophy also receives LED headlamps, a Heritage front grille, unique Land Rover Trophy badging and event participation graphics personalised to each customer.
Event participation? Yes, you heard right. Each car includes entry to an exclusive three-day adventure at Eastnor Castle in Herefordshire – the spiritual home of Land Rover. This will be the first time customers get to drive their car and – pandemic permitting – will happen later in 2021. Attending the event and ready to give you some top tips will be Bob Ives, who won the 1989 Camel Trophy, and Land Rover ambassador Jessica Hawkins, who’ll share her stunt and racing experience for those feeling extra adventurous!
Inside, the Trophy is decked out in full black Windsor leather upholstery with Recaro sports seats, contrasting yellow stitching and a bespoke Land Rover Trophy clock face by Elliot Brown. Land Rover Classic’s own infotainment system with navigation and mobile device connectivity is also fitted, making sure the Trophy is up to speed for those daily requirements.
Both 90 and 110-wheelbase Defender Works V8 Trophy derivatives are available to order now directly from Land Rover Classic, with UK prices starting from £195,000 for the 90 wheelbase.
