Thanks for the link Chris, I hadn‘t seen that article.(shame I couldn’t spell his name)

OK I’m not an anorak but they call it a 463. His is actually a 461 which is a basic model with selectable 4WD rather than the full time system found in the 463, nice basic drive train……..good, however it has electronically controlled engine management (Sprinter engine)……………bad, especially given the fact that IMHO MB/Chrysler lost the plot around 1998 in the quality stakes. Hence my preference for 1991-95.

Still has diff locks front and rear but after messing about in soft sand with my 463 I don’t see them as a huge advantage. Rocks, cross axle, mud situations yes great though, allows waaay more finesse/control when compared with open axle set ups.

I’ll have to track down the book.

Here In New Zealand a Coalmine brought 10 of the latest toyota 70 series landcrusiers 4.5 litre v8 diesels
within ONe year two engines replaced!!, other stories around here of valve trouble, landrovers at same place no engines broken, just electrics
So long as you are familiar with whatever you use its ok, I drove Africa, australia, russia, could always get the landrover home

We know landy and cruiser owners and have come to the conclusion that landy garages abroad are cheaper than toyota, parts seem to be cheaper as well from what we've heard. Availability of parts is the main issue and again we've come to the conclusion that it's equally split between the two vehicles for sourcing parts overseas- depending on which country you're in.
So it comes down to the vehicle itself- I guess neither vehicle is the wrong one, it's all down to whether you've bought a pig or not. Some come well dressed and some not. 'Wasting money on extra's' , depends on the extras- if you want to live in it you will want to buy some bits and as far as I'm aware neither vehicle comes with roof tent or water tank as standard. So once again the vehicles are placed equally. It depends on what type of traveller you are- are you going to buy this equipment but spend most nights in hotels or are you going to bushcamp most of the time? Live- in gets our landy vote- lots of space and less windows for good security!
I don't see the point of 'car bashing', everyone has their personal choice. Our landy has been fantastic- maybe it's a mix of a good buy and VERY regular maintenance. What-ever you buy- enjoy it, look after it and you will be rewarded with the best experience of your life. Overlanding is not about the vehicle you drive- it's the experience of doing it that matters.