When you read about the Land Rover Defender, you’re usually told about how mighty and capable of a vehicle it is, but it will never mention anything about being fast. It’s true, the Defender is renowned for being on a slow side since speed was never its intention but the guys over at Wildcat Automotive have different ideas about what the Defender should be.
The Wildcat Defender LS3 V8 110 XS SW may have a ridiculously long name but it’s also got a ridiculous amount of power. The UK-based aftermarket specialist replaced the stock diesel engine and gearbox for a Corvette 6.2-liter LS3 V8 producing 430 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque which is mated to a GM 6L80 six-speed transmission or Ford’s six-speed automatic 6R80 transmission.
And for those who are hungry for even more power, Wildcat Automotive can boost that power to 550 horsepower by reprogramming the existing vehicle management system. In terms of the instrument cluster and controls, they all remain stock without having to worry about changing the look of the classic Land Rover Defender.
Overall, the vehicle looks stock except for the bolt-on flares on the outside and four racing bucket seats on the inside. But once you turn on the engine, you may be turning a few heads. No word on pricing or 0-60mph times.
