Buying a 90...300TDI or a TD5?

Right here goes...my first post here so i'd like to see what you guys think!

Im looking at getting my first defender...I'm after a 90 hardtop. I was originally looking at a 200 or 300TDI, mainly because of my price range! (max about 4000, maybe a touch more if its the right landy)

But yesterday I was offered an X reg TD5 90 hardtop for (what I think) a decent price. about £4500.

I'm not sure of the condition as I havn't been to have a look (or seen any pictures) yet all I know is its got 140,000 miles on the clock, a waxoyled chassis (not sure when this was done?) and 1 months MOT left..which he siad he was willing to MOT before the sale (which kind of tells me hes not expecting anything major?)

Obviously I'm tempted for the TD5 at that price and that year...I'm thinking there's going to be less chance in getting a corroded chassis or bulkhead with it not bieng too old...what do you guys think?


Be great for some other opinions on this...I'll hopefully get to pop and have a look at it on the weekend (oh, and its only 10 minutes down the road..bonus!)


Cheers guys

Price sounds good but td5 much more expensive for engine parts when it goes wrong
Tdi bits so cheap its almost funny



Lynall

I like 300tdi and TD5 so it's up to you!!

Before you settle on the TD5 check for any signs of diesel in the engine oil. If its there walk away or expect to spend a few thousand rebiulding the engine. Having said that the TD5 is a superb engine.

140,000 miles is a long way!... check the service history....

Mine's a year younger and just clocked 70K....

I like td5 engine.Make sure the head is not cracked.Turner will give you good service in that regard.


Regards

Ivor Lett