I reckon if you can justify it, go for a series 2. They are a lot more modern than the series 1's. Mechanically they are stronger, with better axles, cv's etc. They are nicer to drive, more powerful, and better on the road.
As suggested get one with the centre diff lock (or get it fitted at least)
Make sure it has a full service history.
With ACE they handle really well (Active cornering enhancement)
7 seats available (and the rear 2 are really good) on the SLS models.
I had a late 2004 td5 auto for a while and loved it.
cheers.

