UK vs UK — 2018 vs 1983
| Defender 90 V8 | Defender 90 V8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 525 hp | 134 hp |
| Torque | — | 185 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,999 cc | 3,528 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 14.0 sec |
| Top Speed | — | 90 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 19.5 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,814 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,360 mm | 2,360 mm |
| Length | 4,063 mm | 3,886 mm |
| Original MSRP | — | $25,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $150,000 | $100,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 5/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 2018 Land Rover Defender 90 V8 brings more power to the table, and the 1983 Land Rover Defender 90 V8 answers with stronger collectibility, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Land Rover Defender. The 2018 and 1983 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 2018 Land Rover Defender 90 V8 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 525 hp compared to 134 hp, a 391-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 Defender 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 1983 Land Rover Defender 90 V8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1983 Land Rover Defender 90 V8 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.