Anyone with experience on this type of vehicle? I've been checking some units out in the local market recently for the possibility of replacing the gas guzzling LC II (70 series).

The first units I saw were almost identical ex-JDM units. Discos are pretty easy to convert to LHD. Even the side mirrors and dash shell are identical. Only the dashpod and airbag housing need to be moved. They are SE (top of the line units) with V8 engines (gas guzzlers but at least more powerful than the anemic and gas guzzling LC 4-banger) mated to an automatic. Also has dual electric sunroofs, dual a/c, clever rear jump seats, leather, etc. I'm not too sure about the selling price, but they will take a GEN II Pajero plus a lil cash.

The second unit I looked at was a local (Prestige Motors) '97. Maroon, TDi, A/T. Also had dual a/c and dual (though manual) sunroofs. Seven seater configuration with mixed (leather/cloth) upholstery. The unit seemed ok and mechanically sound on initial inspection. Some interior trim were missing. And the whole vehicle seemed to have undergone a haphazard hilamos job. There was overspray everywhere including door latches, door panels, rubber grommets, etc. The price was also a bit high though probably still fair for the vehicle.

The third unit was an ex-Mid East unit. White, TDi with a 5-speed manual. No dual air, no sunroofs, but still had rear jumpseats. Cloth upholstery and no airbags. It was being sold for Php 750k. Some mechanical and cosmetic work still needed (around Php 150k worth). A bit overpriced, IMHO.

Do you think buying a Land Rover (specifically the Disco) is a good idea? Defenders are still way out of our league (used ones still fetching Php 1.6M).

http://www.digi-go.biz/axb1aaa/vehicle.html