Land Rover has announced that it is to produce a limited-edition high-performance version of the iconic Defender, with up to 150 V8-powered examples re-engineered to celebrate the Land Rover marque’s 70th anniversary this year.

To be built by the Defender Works, this latest V8 edition pays homage to the early high-powered engines in both the Series III Stage 1 V8 from 1979 and subsequent Defenders.

This will be the most powerful and fastest version of the Defender that Land Rover has ever created, its 5.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol V8 producing 400hp and 515Nm of torque; it will accelerate from 0 to 60mph in 5.6sec and have a top speed of 106mph.

Tim Hannig, Jaguar Land Rover Classic director, said: “It’s fitting that we’ve been able to achieve the full potential of the iconic Defender, whose much-loved shape remains synonymous with Land Rover.

“The idea of reintroducing a V8 model was something we were discussing as far back as 2014, when we were still building the Defender in Solihull.

“We knew the demand was there for a powerful and fast Defender; the Land Rover authenticity is the ultimate finishing touch for discerning clients purchasing these collector’s edition Defenders.”

The V8 powertrain to be fitted to the 150 specially selected and re-engineered Defenders for the 70th edition will be complemented by an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission with sport mode, uprated brakes and handling kit (springs, dampers and anti-roll bars), plus exclusive alloy wheels and all-terrain tyres.

The eight standard body colours will include two satin finishes, and there will be a full-leather interior trim.

Both 90in- and 110in-wheelbase Defender Works V8 derivatives will be available to purchase direct from Land Rover Classic, with prices starting from £150,000 for the 90 version.