Land Rover's Classic division wants to put a proper V8 back under the hood of the last analog Defenders it built. The Works V8 Conversion drops a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 into Puma-diesel Defenders from the L316 generation.

The engine makes 405 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed ZF automatic. It is the centerpiece of a wider upgrade program covering suspension, wheels, brakes, and chassis hardware for 90 and 110 models built between 2007 and 2016.

Not every Puma-era Defender qualifies for the engine swap itself. While the broader chassis and suspension packages stretch across the full 2007–2016 production run, the V8 conversion narrows that window considerably, and buyers need to check their build date before getting attached to the idea.

Underneath, the package pairs Bilstein dampers with Eibach coil springs for a revised ride, along with an Alcon brake setup running four-piston calipers. Front rotors measure 335 millimeters (13.2 inches), with 300-millimeter (11.8-inch) discs at the rear, a serious jump from the stock Puma-diesel brakes.

Cosmetic and dynamic trims come bundled separately from the engine work. Buyers can spec 16-inch steel wheels as the standard fitment or step up to 18-inch alloys, plus Works V8 badging and a redesigned gear tunnel inside the cabin.

Dominic Elms, director of JLR Classic, described the program around flexibility rather than a single build spec. He said the range is meant to serve "whether as a cherished family companion, a dependable workhorse, or a valuable collector's piece," covering daily drivers and garage-kept examples alike.

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