Hi everyone,
This is my introductory post and I'm just getting into the world of land rovers. I don't own any but growing up spent a lot of time with a 'land rover family' and I understand what they are about. After several years building chevs and then volkswagens I'd now like a Land Rover.

What I want is a LWB, coil sprung and diesel. Defender, series whichever. It will be my daily driver and see off-roading as well. (can be scratched/dented I don't really care). We have another 'family car' so this won't need to be 'the one reliable car'.

I'm very familiar with engine swaps, fab work and such things so here's my question, Do I...

Keep my eye out for ex-mod diesel (just missed a 110 for around $6000). OR

I have access to a 1997 disco chassis ($1500). Buy a 109, and then decide on tdi (landy or VW), cummins, etc. total cost $8000? (currently sitting under totalled RR body)

I didn't really want a project right now since I'm coming down from one but would do it if I couldn't find a beat up defender for the right price. I'll be putting up an ad in wanted section to see what I can find.

Thoughts? Ins/outs of either option for driver? Hybrid more work than its worth for what I want?

Mike