Land Rover Defender

vs

Land Rover 101 Forward Control

UK vs UK — 2018 vs 1975

Land Rover Defender (2018)
Land Rover 101 Forward Control (1975)
Specifications
Defender 90 V8101 Forward Control Military V8
Horsepower525 hp128 hp
Torque185 lb-ft
Engine Size4,999 cc3,528 cc
Top Speed65 mph
Weight4,608 lbs
Wheelbase2,360 mm2,565 mm
Length4,063 mm4,470 mm
Units Produced2,669
Value (Excellent)$150,000$85,000
Collectibility5/108/10
Rarity10/108/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 2018 Land Rover Defender 90 V8 brings more power to the table, and the 1975 Land Rover 101 Forward Control Military V8 answers with stronger collectibility, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

Land Rover has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 2018 Land Rover Defender 90 V8 with the 1975 Land Rover 101 Forward Control Military V8 highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 2018 Land Rover Defender 90 V8 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 525 hp compared to 128 hp, a 397-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Land Rover Defender uses a V8 displacing 4,999 cc, while the Land Rover 101 Forward Control relies on a V8 OHV with 3,528 cc. On the collector market, the 2018 Land Rover Defender 90 V8 commands a significant premium over the 1975 Land Rover 101 Forward Control Military V8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1975 Land Rover 101 Forward Control Military V8 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.