A good point Roger, and often overlooked. In 2008 I had no idea that some seats didn't recline so I was lucky. Of course you can never assume that the seats are original anyway, but for me the two key issues, both of which I missed back then was the long door vs short door and the (folding and) reclining seats.
There's also the ease of getting stuff in and out behind the seats too. Those who don't have reclining seats often find it a faff to keep sliding the seat back and forth (which isn't easy either!).
My 96 +8 did not recline but, had a lever to release them and then they tilted forward hinged at the front, so you did not have to slide them. When I changed my car I rejected 2 Roadsters due to not having reclining seats. I agree with earlier comments and would look for a 4/4 with 1.8 Duratec with reclining seats, and I think by default it will have a stainless bulkhead, or a +4 with same.
