Ccv or rtv with landy pay and play of general stuff with the awdc and a sj, I'm quite happy to buy one with all the mods done it saves me money ?
I think the worlds your oyster to be honest - budget permitting.
For good off road ability you need good suspension travel and flex. Usually live axles.
If not, then some sort of traction aid such as traction control or proper locking axle diffs (or an LSD). Few vehicles comes with these as standard or at this price point.
Minimal overhangs, good ground clearance and tough enough are important factors too.
RTV/CCV is certainly easier in a smaller vehicle. So local club level it'll be more enjoyable, although there will be more competition.
If you are considering Land Rover's then I would recommend looking at the ALRC as well as the AWDC.
Series motors are still worth a look, an 88 is still small and nimble and quite capable. Lots of potential mods too.
SJ's are fine - but a Jimny is better.
Jeeps are still worth a look too, esp on a pay and play sort of use.
Bad ass Cherokee...........Pics Post - Pirate4x4.Com Bulletin Board
Bad ass Grand Cherokee........ Pics Post - Pirate4x4.Com Bulletin Board
But as said previous, Hilux's are worth a look too:
Jimny:
But a Disco is still a good starting point, as you can bobtail them, pickup or even turn them into an 80" special: