I bought a 1972 4/4 4 seater from Life's in Southport earlier this year, and haven't regretted it at all. I've done 5000 miles and only had two problems - the fuel gauge tricked me into running out of fuel by showing quarter full when it wasn't, and the positive connection to the starter became loose - fixed the first with fuel and the second with a brand new starter from an autojumble for a tenner - 1p more than the kit I needed to repair the connection on the old one. It came with a reconditioned engine (after 95,000 miles 40,000 miles ago) and a five speed box.
I like the fact that it's an old car - very simple under the bonnet and not so much money invested in it that I feel precious about it. The seats are a bit basic. When we did the factory tour it was the one thing my wife picked up on, but not with enough concern to warrant buying a later car with seats that might have a modicum of support.
When you make your decision just remember that for twice the price you won't get twice the enjoyment!
