Land Rover Classic pays tribute to the origins of the brand and to Spencer Wilks with the meticulously crafted and luxurious Classic Defender Works V8 Islay Edition, limited to just 30 examples.
Land Rover Classic introduced the first heritage-themed special edition Defender – Classic Defender Works V8 Islay Edition. This limited edition model commemorates the brand's origins, the island of Islay in Scotland and Spencer Wilks, the company's key founder and CEO Rover Car Company.
Classic Defender Works V8 Islay Edition, inspired by Spencer Wilks' personal 1965 Series IIa Land Rover, is a marvel of restoration, engineering and craftsmanship. With only 30 units available – 17 as the short-wheelbase 90 and 13 as the seven-seat 110 – this collector's item is a must-have for enthusiasts seeking the ultimate in Land Rover heritage. And not just conversions of this legendary vehicle.
Defender Works V8 Islay Edition, powered by robust 5.0-liter V8 gasoline engine with 405 hp (301 kW) and mated to an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, it is based on donor vehicles from 2012-2016. Each vehicle is meticulously restored, redesigned and upgraded to provide a unique blend of luxury, modern engineering and timeless appeal.
With the exterior Heritage Grey with a contrasting limestone roof and steel wheels, the Islay Edition boasts a sophisticated look. Traditional logos Land Rover and body-coloured badging, a classic-style grille, iconic heritage-branded rear fenders and exclusive Wilks Series IIa registration 'GXC 639C' side graphics add to its recognisability.
The interior showcases Land Rover's dedication to detail and authenticity. Luxurious Windsor Ebony leather covers the seats, side panels, doors, headliner and dashboard. The classic infotainment system, complete with satellite navigation, DAB radio and Bluetooth, is housed in the original display and faceplate. Heritage Gray body color adorns the pistol-grip gear lever, while a plaque tells the story of the origins of the Land Rover name.
In an Islay signature, the seats, door cards and sunshade details are finished in a specially selected tweed made by the Islay Woolen Mill. The pattern and colors of the tweed reflect the island's natural beauty, while the central storage area features a unique wooden disc from an oak whiskey barrel sourced from the award-winning Kilchoman Distillery. The distillery has family ties to Spencer Wilks, whose granddaughter Kathy Wills founded it in 2005.
Classic Defender Works V8 Islay Edition priced at £230,000 (approx. €278,000) for the 90 and £245,000 (approx. €296,000) for the 110, it offers unmatched performance, luxury and exclusivity. With a sprint from 0 to 60 miles per hour (0-97 km/h) in 5.6 seconds and a top speed of 106 miles per hour (170 km/h), this exceptional limited edition is the ultimate tribute to Land Rover's 75-year heritage.
