Land Rover Defender 110

vs

Land Rover Defender 90 SVX

UK vs United Kingdom — 1983 vs 2008

Land Rover Defender 110 (1983)
Land Rover Defender 90 SVX (2008)
Specifications
Defender 110 Td5Defender 90 SVX SVX Spectre Edition
Horsepower122 hp390 hp
Torque221 lb-ft405 lb-ft
Engine Size2,495 cc4,394 cc
0-60 mph16.5 sec6.5 sec
Top Speed82 mph105 mph
¼ Mile15.1 sec
Weight4,332 lbs5,291 lbs
Wheelbase2,794 mm2,360 mm
Length4,647 mm3,871 mm
Units Produced250
Original MSRP$35,000$85,000
Value (Excellent)$70,000$200,000
Collectibility7/1010/10
Rarity4/1010/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 2008 Land Rover Defender 90 SVX SVX Spectre Edition with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1983 Land Rover Defender 110 Td5 offers lighter weight, better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

Few model names carry as much weight as the Land Rover Defender 110. The 1983 and 2008 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 2008 Land Rover Defender 90 SVX SVX Spectre Edition holds a clear advantage in raw power with 390 hp compared to 122 hp, a 268-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Land Rover Defender 110 uses a Inline-5 DOHC Diesel Turbo displacing 2,495 cc, while the Land Rover Defender 90 SVX relies on a 4.4L Supercharged V8 with 4,394 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2008 Land Rover Defender 90 SVX SVX Spectre Edition edges ahead at 6.5 seconds versus 16.5 seconds. The Land Rover Defender 110 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 959 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 2008 Land Rover Defender 90 SVX SVX Spectre Edition commands a significant premium over the 1983 Land Rover Defender 110 Td5, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 2008 Land Rover Defender 90 SVX SVX Spectre Edition rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.