Jeep for day2day use - customize Thar or an old MM540/CJ3B

I am thinking of getting a Jeep for day to day use. Purpose would be more of daily commute and some level of off-roading. I am thinking between buying a Thar and customizing it (hard-top + AC + modifying seats, music system etc.) or getting an old MM540 and doing the same. following are the merits / de-merits of each as I see: getting a Thar + new vehicle, CRDe engine, IFS, Factory Fitted disc brakes for front - cost 7.4L on road, probably another 3L for customizations, bought only for chasis and engine. entire body (except bonnet) will be re-done getting an old vehicle and modifying + cost of vehicle would be less - used vehicle; health of vehicle is a concern, engine life and need for re-doing the engine needs to be understood. Some questions that I have: In general, will I be able to get a MM540 in good condition for around 4L? In that case, i think another 3.5 L for customizations would still be ok. has someone done this in past ? any good pointers for doing the same in Chennai ?? I would request your thoughts / ideas on what would be a better option ?

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