Land Rover Repair: Advice on a purchase

Question
QUESTION: Given the engine issues you've documented on the 2003-04 Discovery II models, what would you advice be for someone who is interested in an older Land Rover as a 2nd vehicle?  Have always had a soft spot for these vehicles, nearly bought one new back around that time, and have been tempted to look for a low mileage model to have as a weekend car (with a little econo-box as a daily driver).

Are you better off getting one for next to nothing and then dropping in a new engine and transmission?

Are the LR3's any better?

Thanks!

ANSWER: I would look at a rust free Range Rover Classic.  We are seeing people make major restoration investments in those trucks more and more.  They are the next collectible Rover.

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QUESTION: A man after my own heart.  Does your car buying service find many of those?  About how much would one expect to pay for a relatively clean (but not fully restored) 1995 County LWB?

Answer
We see them sold in the $7-15k range in good unrestored condition.  A first rate restoration like you see done on Defenders will run over $100k and a Classic restoration to the same level would run perhaps $20k more because of the leather interior, accessories, etc.