Late TDi or TD5?

I'm looking for a Discovery but the choices are vast. I have narrowed my search down to a late 300 TDi or 2001 to 2004 TD5. Me and the family need it for work, some boring stuff and play (green lanes). Budget up to 4-5k depending on the cost of living in the near future. Cheers

Personnal View

If you lean more to a road going "car" TD5 - More Refined, Less Rust Issues, However more complicated, more to go wrong and worse MPG

If you lean more to Green Lanes TDI - More aftermarket Bits, Less to go wrong however less likely to have a boot floor inner wings etc.

Got a low mileage late 300 if interested

Cheers for the feedback. I will probable end up seeking out a TD5. I would prefer one registered in 2004 but seems a tad expensive for a goodun. I have heard the 2001 TD5 is a good option. Any comments appreciated.

I've had a 2000 TD5 and I've got a 2004 one now. The later ones in good nick still command high prices, as you seem to have discovered. My earlier one was just as good though to drive.

I wouldn't necessarily go for age, but condition. If reliability is important, consider a 5 seater, which will not have the air suspension, or a converted 7 seater. The lower spec ones also won't have ACE. Both these can cost a real packet if they go wrong. My experience is that the TD5 is essentially a reliable unit, but the ancillaries can let it down.

I would think £5000 will get you a pretty good TD5. I would look at as many as you can. Check the underside. Chassis rust is the main killer. They can look quite smart just looking at the bodywork, but still be a wreck underneath. Also check all the dash warning lights come on when you turn the key. Not unknown apparently for them to be "doctored" to hide problems.

Hope that helps. Good hunting.

Nice one, thank's for your time.