Next Model for New Adventures

[Rovertrader]

130s are the bomb- hopefully Doug will chime in too. I too have little ones, and the only drawback to the 130 is the rear seat legroom is about 2-3" less than a 110, and the overall length can be a handful in tight spots. I had a CC p/u the first time round, and a full on box this build which is better for expedition travel IMHO. I believe it is Foley's that also makes 130 wagons ... And remember the 130 overhangs much further out back than 90 and 110 models.
For DD wife duties, either a RRC Tdi, D-I Tdi, or even D-II Td5(my choice if in the UK). I would advise using this as the travel vehicle in Europe as well, and get on with the Defender build so you have the option for both types of travel. The P38 RRs are a mess unless late model years like '01 and '02, and are still Td5. The Td5 D-II will also have your CDL, and you are already familiar with said model.

[Northernlilywhite]

Nice thought Rovertrader, I am probably going to go the way of the Disco 1 for the DD as I can use it for play and for my wife while the Defender takes shape. D1 is cheaper than D2, comes standard with CDL, and I won't feel as bad if it ends up a bit knackered and left to makes it own way while I work on the defender project. I would love another D2 2004 but I think it is out of my price range if I also want to get a Defender 110 or 130 in the same patch of time. What engines would people recommend for a 130 for expeds? I am thinking 300 tdi for simplicity and ruggedness but what about a TD5 or possibly a completely non LR engine like a big Mazda or something eastern for reliability.