agreed, nice motor, don’t really want to spend that amount. But having said that, I intend this to be my final car purchase and keep it. Again that’s why I don’t want it stolen. Living around the countryside I do see lots of posts about stolen defenders round here.
If you think it’s your last car and would prefer not to have to get the welder out. You have a healthy budget
I would go with an early suggestion of get 1 that’s already had work and has a galv chassis+ bulkhead. Chances are the mechanics will be pretty good if it’s been rebuilt, as for what engine don’t worry to much as it doesn’t sound like you will be doing an awful lot of mileage.
Start with that a base for selection, Don’t go for flashy.
Spend the rest on a good tracker and some Very obvious security, with a lot of personal identification that only you know. Ensure the chassis doesn’t show what it is.
if you get 1 on a galv chassis mark it some how.
Good luck in your search, lots around don’t rush in and if you do find a candidate, come back and ask here.
J