Flossie, I feel You! I've spent over 10k euros (7-8k on parts) on my 2006 D90 and haven't actually done any major jobs. Just fuel pump and lines, engine seals (not the head gasket), new suspension, new brakes, lots of small non-functioning bits in the interior, half shafts, flanges, bearings etc etc. All parts bought myself, trusty mechanic did the work at a reasonable price. So I wouldn't say it's that large of a sum to get a truck with galvanised bulkheads/chassis for 14k. I think that's actually quite reasonable. There are sometimes those super-sweet deals where a mint condition Defender is up for sale for a strangely low price, but those haven't come along in the last 3 years. So props to You for sharing this info and I'm definitely on Your team on this topic
To the young guy who wants to buy a 90. I would avoid the 90 if I was You and go for a 110. It's just so much more practical. You can carry large things and lots of people in it, can sleep in the truck, it has a much higher potential to satisfy Your practical needs for 10+ years. The only real good thing about the 90 apart from the looks is the parking. It's so much easier to do