Discovery 2 purchase and maintenance costs

mistybluehills wrote: »

I'm hoping some experienced LR people here can give me some up to date advice on the following,
I'm considering buying a Discovery 2, with the intention of keeping/maintaining for 5 years plus.
While they seem to have a plethora of problems, based on what I've been told/read (rust rust rust!!!), it still appears that they can be maintained well if money is spent??

Questions as follows: I'm hoping to buy on condition and maintenance history rather than year/mileage.
A very well maintained Uk model, could cost €8000 + vrt.
Better to purchase this, or an irish model for approx 3-4 k, and spend on it as necessary???

Maintenance budget per annum: I was estimating the following:
1 x full and 1 x interim service total 500-600€
Per annum, 1500€ put aside for major repairs that might be needed, I see from what I've read, repairs can add up...
Tyres, 600€ per annum

plus 1080 car tax

I drive about 12,000 miles per year, some off roading (across fields, rough tracks), but not huge amount, light towing, need rear seats for family, already have good quality family car for long motorway spins etc.
I use a local mechanic who is very knowledgeable and reliable. (he has warned me, by the way, about purchasing one of these!!!)

Views welcome, thanks[/quot

Just read my post:
Main question- is this a reasonable maintenance budget, too high or too low?