Which age/engine to go for?

Hello,
I'm just about to purchase my first second hand defender and there are a few things I'm not completely sure about. Firstly, the price range I have seems to cover models from about 1996 to 2003 which obviously has models with either the 300TDI or the TD5 engine. I was wondering what one you could advise me to go for? I have only ever driven a TDI so I have no experience of a TD5. Although the TD5 has the advantage of the newer dashboard and interior.

I am grateful for any advice
Thanks,
James

Jamespepperpot said:

Although the TD5 has the advantage of the newer dashboard and interior.

Click to expand...

It does however have the disadvantage of elecktrickery we all hate.

If I had my price range I would look for the best one all round, as little corrosion as possible, lowest miles possible (although 100,000 is nothing) generally as clean as tidy as possible but most important to me would be that it hasn't been messed with. There are too many pathetic DIY mechanics out there that bodge things, so I don't want a death trap with butchered electrics and bad mods.

It's all about personal choice and you will get different stories from different people.
Personally, I have had 200 tdi, 300 tdi and TD5. For ease of repair etc the tdi's are great for any diy mechanic, the TD5's however need a little more thinking about due to the electrickery involved.

As regards driving, the TD5 has a lot more 'go' in it for general driving/towing but doesn't have the low down torque of the tdi in my opinion. The dash in the TD5 can be retrofitted and there are some other aftermarket ones that are pretty smart.

Personally my money would be on the TD5 every time! I've had to spend a few quid on mine to get it how I want it (as everyone should) but it's my daily drive and it's great!