Offroad-Express

Hi All.

My Dear old Mum has decided that a 4X4 hobby is for her.

I had mostly convinced her that a 2l, version 3, auto, 4 door Vitara would suit her needs and wants well, and be in her price range.

We got to the last car yard in Hamilton yesterday and were introduced to a 1998 3 door 2.7tdi Nissan Mistral. Long story short, she is interested in it.

I have read on this forum the following:
Engine is reliable.
Electrics all over the vehicle may or may not be reliable.
A known issue with rust at the rear seat and seat belt mounts/floor pan.

Because I'm the one who will have to diagnose / fix any problems, should I use my 10ft barge pole and keep away from the Mistral?

Can I please have some advice to correct or confirm the above statements and opinions.

Regards
Merv

Ps

Hope to see you out and about myself this summer after I have installed recovery points to my Delica.

I own one. 5 door.

get under the truck infront of the rear axle and have a good look for any signs of rust in the floor pan. also lift up the back seats (not the very rear ones...7 seater if its a 5 door) and carpet

in saying that. I have never seen a 1997 onward with the rust issue LTNZ speaks of, only the earlier ones.

Vitara!!!!! smaller, lighter more capable in standard form.