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My partner and I have decided that we want a 4x4 we have been looking and decided that i like isuzu bighorn's (95-97) with the 3.1 diesel engine and she likes the nissan Terrano's again 95-98 2.7 diesel we have decided that it has to be manual as auto is just us and we feel more comfortable coming down ski field roads with gears,we have a 1 year old daughter so like to carry a small country's worth of gear for her :) we are looking to spend under 10k and there seams to be a small selection of suitable cars within the criteria with around 140 to 160k on the clock , we are wanting to keep it for about 5 years then upgrade to a newer 4x4 with more safety features,( everything we look at has 2 air bags) can you please give your opinion as to the better choice mechanically?

To be honest you could toss a coin on this question. A past and proven service history may help you decide which one to go for.

The Isuzu may be the better choice if you were intending towing heavy loads such as a large caravan or boat as well as travelling to the ski fields.

If not then the Nissan may be the better option.

Regardless, be careful and do your homework. Older Diesels can be very expensive to own.

Do you think it would be worth spending more on a newer one? we have also looked at around the 2001 nissan xtrails manual 2ltr petrol

I think the Nissan X-TRAIL is an excellent value for money vehicle and carries far less risk than the other vehicles you mention.

Don’t assume everyone is bullet proof however, do the basic checks including a mechanical inspection if you find one that fits the budget.

There goes my toy :( the wife has fallen in love with the xtrail since we started out search for a new car so it looks like we are off to get one , wish me luck