Welcome back Neil, and I am pleased to hear that life is looking rosey again.
My advice would be to think very carefully about an older car. There are a number of issues that you may need to consider. Older cars tend to be less reliable and whilst they are easier to self maintain they may require unexpected and costly repairs. I speak from experience. Motor and electronic technology have moved on considerably and in general terms more reliable than older systems.
The other issue which may present problems in the near future is that the screws are slowly tightening against older cars on the grounds of polution. In my region the use of such cars may be banned on days of high polution and may be banned from entering certain city zones.
Not that I want to give my life story but having suffered a serious road accident followed by the loss of a lifetime partner after a long struggle with cancer I have decided that life is too short not to use what resources I can to achieve some of my dreams. This led me to a planned trip for one year to Italy in 2003 (and I am still here) and to purchasing a new Plus 4 in 2012.
I know nothing of your financial situation Neil but what I can say is that as far as possible live your dreams.
It seems to me that a decent 80s car will cost between £20K and £25K whereas a reasonably low mileage 2012 car (Euro 5 emissions and modern engine and electronics, plus better dampers and steering systems) can be found for around £32K.
A good example would be this:
https://www.carandclassic.co.uk/car/C1165432Another good example would be this 4/4 at Lifes:
https://www.carandclassic.co.uk/car/C1165305