Loki - don't buy a pre 2000 freelander they have problems with the IRD (Transfer Case) and the viscous couplings. If you have a failure you will be up for about $5k in repair costs - I know because I have just been through it and I know of a number of others who have had the same problems. Post 2000 are Ok in this respect.
Don't buy an 1.8i - again there are design problems with the head and on some the cylinder liners - our hot weather doesn't help matters. In Aust problems are usually fixed with a new engine - $5000+
You might be lucky with the above problems but it is just not worth the risk. Pre 2000 3 door 1.8s with average Kms only sell for about $13K so any of the above problems may not be economical to repair.
If you want a Freelander the pick is a post 2000 TD4 - no major problems, they are a dream to drive, go really well on the open road and don't use a lot of fuel. The V6s are also pretty good - a bit faster at the lights but not necessarily on the road but are a bit thirsty.
I also have a v8 Disco which is a bit more refined - bigger and uses a bit more fuel - but are just as cheap as Freelanders to buy.
Garry
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