# Land Rover Defender Residuals: A Month of Exciting Developments
## Land Rover Defender Residuals: A Month of Exciting Developments
The Land Rover Defender has been making waves in the automotive industry lately, thanks to the announcement of two restoration-and-modification specials. This development has been long-awaited and is in line with what industry experts predicted a few years ago. In fact, it seems that the rebranding of old Defenders as Defender Classics is finally coming to fruition. Land Rover Classic has given its seal of approval by bestowing the official title of “Classic Defender” on its recent editions.
## Land Rover Classic Defender V8 by Works Bespoke
The latest addition to the Land Rover Classic lineup is the Land Rover Classic Defender V8 by Works Bespoke. This announcement serves as a reminder to potential buyers considering the Ineos Grenadier Detour that Land Rover is still producing cars with a similar aesthetic. It’s worth noting that Ineos is a company that JLR doesn’t particularly hold in high regard. The Works edition of the Defender is a serious overhaul by Land Rover Classic, with enhancements that stay within the guidelines set by the DVLA to avoid the car being assigned a Q numberplate. Furthermore, the interior has undergone significant improvements, and the external paint and wheel refresh showcased in the promotional pictures make it an enticing option for classic Defender enthusiasts.
## Kingsley Cars: Reimagining the Land Rover Defender
Another company that has entered the Defender restoration and modification arena is Kingsley Cars. Based in Oxfordshire, Kingsley Cars has built a reputation for its Range Rover restorations and mods and has now expanded its offerings to include Defenders. Similar to Land Rover Classic, Kingsley Cars offers the option of a V8 engine upgrade and is more flexible in terms of the engines it selects, including the General Motors LS. They also provide a user-friendly configurator for those who enjoy customizing their Defenders.
## The Price of Exclusivity
While both Land Rover Classic and Kingsley Cars offer exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail, it’s important to note that these restoration and modification specialists come at a considerable cost. The starting price for a Kingsley Cars Defender is around £168,000, while Land Rover Classic’s offerings start at £228,000. As customization options increase, so does the price tag. While this pricing may be justified for exotic classics, it may seem steep for a vehicle that began its life as a working vehicle.
## The Odd World of Defender Pricing
The pricing of Defenders has always been a peculiar aspect of the market. The value of these vehicles can vary significantly, leading to wild disparities in pricing. For instance, a 1990 2.5-liter turbo diesel pick-up Defender in relatively rough condition is currently listed on Auto Trader for just under £7,000. On the other hand, a beautifully restored and modified Defender can fetch prices up to 33 times higher. This unique pricing dynamic has led some Defender owners to invest in accessories and modifications to increase the value of their vehicles.
## About the Author
Matt Prior, Autocar’s Editor-at-large, is a highly experienced automotive writer and presenter. With a background in automotive engineering, Matt has been writing and talking about cars since 1997. His deep knowledge and enthusiasm for all things engineering and automotive make him a trusted source in the industry. Matt’s expertise extends beyond Autocar, as he regularly contributes to other publications such as Move Electric and Classic & Sports Car.
In conclusion, the Land Rover Defender has seen exciting developments in recent times, with restoration-and-modification specialists like Land Rover Classic and Kingsley Cars offering their expertise to enthusiasts. While the cost of these upgrades may seem high, the unique pricing dynamics of Defenders make them a valuable investment. Whether you choose to go for an official Land Rover Classic edition or opt for a specialist like Kingsley Cars, the options are abundant for those looking to enhance their Defender experience.
