which Deef to choose?

[outdoornomad]

Hey everyone...

I need to throw some thoughts into the wind to see what I get back. I am in the market to purchase a new vehicle - naturally I choose a Defender!! I have had and loved a II, IIa, III and 93 disco but need some of your advice on what I should get.

1. '93 TDi - new clutch, new brakes, no snorkel, new timing belt, upgraded suspension, bullbar, ~198K @ $10500

2. '93 TDi - trailer, tow points front/rear, full roof rack with ladder (side), new brakes, major service, drawers, recovery kit, UHF, snorkel, cargo barrier, winch, ~143k @ $14000

3. '96 TDi - cargo barrier, no snorkel, side steps, ~153k @ $14500; or

4. '01 TDi - full roof rack, rear ladder, mounted highlift jack, UHF, 2 spare tyres, dual batteries, roof console, factory new gear box, ~228k @ $18500

My confusion lies with that fact they all have some really good points. I am aware that 200TDi parts are becoming a little more difficult to source (based on comments on this site) so this is a consideration as well...

what do you guys think? if you choose to make a suggestion thanks in advance!! please give rationale though!

cheers -

[Psimpson7]

number 4, the 01 will not be a TDi, Will be a TD5.

Rgds
Pete

[outdoornomad]

i forgot to mention that I am also looking at converting the vehicle to SVO (Straight Veg Oil) if thats going to influence recommendations..

Thanks Pete!!

[Psimpson7]

If veg oil is a consideration, drop number 4.

Id probably pick number 3 on your requirements.

[outdoornomad]

sorry should have had this on my list...

5. '94 TDi - cargo barrier, 3/4 roof rack, 218K @ $10000

[big guy]

Straight veg oil sounds good but can bring on so many probs in pump and injectors and fuel lines etc but having said that I do know of a couple and an Izusu that is going very well.
May I suggest you work out your budget, than choose a car that will do what you want.
Making sure to keep say 3-5 grand for mayor service, all fluids and belts/hoses.
Leave some for accessories and getting car the way you like.

the update say 96-98 would be my choice.
They respond well do some tweaking and do 10l/100km's.
All reliable and with say a rear locker and a small lift will give many cars a scare.

Shop around and remember, there will always be another.
i bought mine off the market section here and good price, spend some $$ on it and am very happy.
Check service history, thats imperative.

Seeing you are in SA, if you super keen, I may part with my Disco for right price.
Send me a pm if keen for a look.

[Landy Smurf]

the 6 tdi is easily the best choice bcoz the 01 td5 are not as good and the milage is way to much for the asking price and the 200tdi are not as good as the 300tdi value for money the 96 model

[clean32]

Look for a county, by the time you get to 15K it will have every thing

[PAT303]

Is that the money they bring?,what would a well serviced trouble free '98 with 422,000 on the clock with snorkel,ARB winch bar,warn high mount,spotties,mud console,EGT gauge,D/gas,40mm lift,cargo barrier,wheel carrier,towbar,255/85 maxxis tyres,koni shocks be worth?. Pat

[lardy]

i forgot to mention that I am also looking at converting the vehicle to SVO (Straight Veg Oil) if thats going to influence recommendations..

Thanks Pete!!

i would go wvo personally as it has less viscosity and less issues in winter such as pre-heating