I dont have personal experience but Freelanders seem to have a pretty good reputation.The early models seem to be more resistant to serious rust. Need to watch for 4wd problems.
No spider on an Auto, immobiliser seems to be inside the injector pump. I'm not too sure, but if you've changed the injection pump, you also need to use the same green ecu to match the donor pump. Someone may correct me on this. Unfortunately...
I've found on two Discos that lazy central locking can be lack of use. My current one sits in a dry garage for 10 months each year, once it's been in use for a couple of days central locking works much better. Admittedly I don't trust it completely.
Interior space might be a problem but would she consider a late Freelander or an early Disco Sport with the same 2.2 engine. Much better engine. Watch for rear subframe corrosion.
Might I suggest that after you establish that your D1 drives reasonably well you lift the carpets back front and rear to check how good (or bad) the floors and bulkhead are. Also peel back the rear boot mat to inspect as rear floor and inner...