Def 90 of SIIa please help decide

Hi All
So I'm about to embark on a project for my lad. He's Landy nuts for various reasons and loves going laning with me (I have a FFRR L322) but I can't decide on what to build with him.
It really comes down to a choice between a Defender 90 (probably a 200TDi) or a Series 2a. Whatever we choose would be a rebuild from the ground up which is where the dilemna comes in. I have done these full rebuilds on defenders before but I have never even driven a SIIa. Thing is though, a 2a would be tax exempt and also qualify for classic vehicle insurance, something not to be sniffed at for a new driver.
So, all advice appreciated, the pros and cons of each etc. The intention is to build one which will last him as long as he wants to keep it.
Thanks in advance
Dom

For startes most "classic" insurers don't want to know young or inexperienced drivers so don't let that influence your decision. I would still go for the 2a though due to the simplicity of the thing, the cheap parts, and the enormous satisfaction you'll get when it's done. However if driving any distance in the real world is likely to occur stick to the coil sprung with power steering and ever so slightly comfier interior.

Go for the 2a with a tdi in and fit parabolics and you'll have a great motor.

Yeah I was kind of leaning towards the 2a since it will become my lad's first car and it's also tax exempt. But never having driven one it's a bit of an unknown quantity to me.

Anyway, got some insurance quotes for a 90 300TDI and a 2a 2.25 diesel. £3800 for the ninety and £1300 for the 2a. That settles it then I really don't understand how some of the kids today manage to insure stuff like Imprezas etc.

So the hunt is on for a 2a project car then. Gonna go SWB and start with a galvo chassis I reckon. See where it goes from there but need to find a completeish vehicle to start with.

i would go for 2a too especially as you plan to do up new steering box,relay,springs and bushes as mentioned will drive well its only that most are worn out that people complain about the driveability

Try one of the Landrover mags, should find one there or ebay or gumtree.

Looks like the general consensus is with me then. I do plan to do a proper rebuild rather than a quick bodge up, something which doesn't scare me. Used to build rally cars in the past so happy with all aspects of mechanical stuff. Also not in any great rush - have a few years to do this before it's needed.

im currently redoing my light wieght with similar thing in mind,with galv chassis even when there finished it still be there