Why is that a 'big mistake'?? condition is everything no matter if its had 2 owners or 20
I paid 1500 for my V8CSW 110, chassis had never been welded and still hasn't been welded due to structural issues, sold the V8 engine and box for far more than its 300tdi and box cost so quids in on the engine conversion
it was nothing special but was very clean, exceptionally straight and low miles
To be honest the only thing that would bother me would be chassis condition, everting else can be unbolted and swopped in a weekend... chassis is a bit more involved and expensive.... buy the best chassis you can and get it protected
Cheers Steve