Hello

I am a newbie and have always loved the Defender but never had one.

I am looking to buy but not sure which way to go!,, Also like the freelander 2 which is a better ride. I have no mechanical skills so will not be fixing anything but I do want to go off roading when not using it as my working vehicle and throwing the dogs in it.

I do lots of short runs generally but do longer one at least once a week - so diesel or petrol or doesn't it matter?..

Thanks in advance

Welcome

So much depends on what you want and what you'll enjoy driving. In my opinion a diesel defender is good for almost any kind of driving you can imagine, but some people like the saloon car comfort.

Welcome to the nuthouse.

If you don't want to work on anything, forget a Defender unfortunately....they are a bit high maintenance. You'll find out the general view of Freelander's on here fairly quickly ! Disco would likely be the best bet I'd guess....

Also depends on your budget, defenders are great for chucking stuff including dogs in the back of regardless of how wet and muddy they are. I'd recommend driving a couple, I've just upgraded the clutch pedal on mine and it's made it more like a normal car but it's still sounds like a biscuit tin full of marbles. On the plus side though it barely depreciates if at all and certainly likes going for a play, or should that be a plough

Welcome to The LandyZone @Suzsi Moles, no matter what Landy model you choose be prepared to spend a lot of time playing with it, they are all like those "special children" who despite being lovable take a lot of your attention and time.
You will always be able to find answers and help for your Landy here on this forum, and never be bored again, some of these characters can entertain for hours.