Older 4x4's that don't cost the earth to run

Gucc

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Hi, as title really. I'm looking for an older 4x4 to use as the 2nd family car (up to around 2k) with a decent towing capability but doesn't cost the earth to run and insure etc. what do you have and any recommendations or makes to avoid?
 
I've had a ford maverick/Nissan terrano, had it for 3yrs got it as stop gap car and cost me £500 thought it would hopefully last a month or two while an insurance claim was being sorted, fell in love with it and kept it. Cost me all of £100 in maintance the whole time I had it, loved that car. However my partner bought me a brand new car so it went (with me crying!) though the car sales, made £500 back on it, and its still going strong now. Tows 2big horse easily. They say the mpg is around 25, but I was getting near 35-40mpg in mine and it had 170000 miles on the clock.
Would defo have one again, and next time I see it driving around I'm going to ask to buy it back, my brand new car just doesn't match up
 
Some years ago(gosh must be 18 eeekkk) we had a lada cossack 4x4 and nope it wasnt pretty like your landies or range rovers. it was basic inside but boy could it pull trailer and ponies even in the thickest gooiest mud. people laughed when we got it but we had last laugh chugging through the mud at one show when all others being towed out. .oh that memory is still sweet. of no help to you OP but im sat here chuckling :)
 
I have a Terrano swb and love it. It's not too bad on fuel and tows great. I've just replaced the exhaust on mine and the mechanic who had it up on ramps said he couldn't believe how sound it was underneath for it's age. :)
 
I have a 20 year old Izusu Trooper and it's brill. Hardly had to do any work in the 6 years I've had it, decent on fuel and tows really nicely - it's a long wheel base and I think can tow around 3 tonne, easily takes a trailer and 2 large horses. Insurance for me fully comp is aorund £50 a month with decent no-claims etc.
 
Ive had isuzu troopers for the last 15 years. they tow like a dream and my insurance is £300 a year fully comp.Only needs the usual maintenance stuff for an older vehicle. I have been told that the newer 3 litre engine (after R reg) has had problems but seen as Ive only ever had the older 3.1 I cant really say. having a OH as an old road nut, the basic rule is buy japanese every time
 
Another vote for the older Isuzu Trooper, i have an R Reg 3.1 Diesel SWB, it looks like a Mad Max car with dents etc but tows really well, not hugely expensive to run and is excellent off road. My dad was a diesel mechanic and he told me often that if I made sure I had it serviced regularly I'd be driving it for years, so far 5 years
 
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