Hello from the US

Hello everyone, I am a prospective Land Rover owner from the United States. I am in the market for a compact but high-payload 4x4 truck, and I have narrowed my selection to either a single cab Land Cruiser 79-series or a Defender 110 Hi-Cap, either of which needs to be at least 25 years old due to American import regulations. I am leaning toward the Defender on account of its full-time 4WD and lower cost, preferably with the 300 TDI. I would appreciate any advice and input from the knowledgeable folks here. Thank you.