Advice on these Jimnys!

Hi everyone
I was a member here back in 2015 when I bought my first 2004 Jimny and I departed after it very sadly got written off in York. I had learnt a lot with all your help and done much DIY mechanics on it. Accordingly I have always maintained an affection for the Jimny.

Well I am now back in the market for one after our replacement car got written off by a truck that ploughed into it whilst parked. Bitter sweet moment as I’m now excited about getting a Jimny.

Since I’ll be sharing it and my other half will use it as a commuter 3-4 days a week actually (I know maybe not an ideal commuter), it has to be automatic, a newer model ideally and max 10k.

I have found these two on eBay, I wanted to get your views on them if I may.

This one was a category S: rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A...2Fitm%2F273956655477

Guy says it is recorded as cat s as it had minor body damage that included the rear quarter, but I thought cat S was major structural damage? There is no sign of a previous repair apparently and is also priced to reflect the cat s status - but what do you guys think?

And this one isn’t I think and I have a better feeling: rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A...2Fitm%2F143343702035

Thanks in advance!!!

Hi and good luck with your Jimny Search.
You are correct. "The new Category S means the vehicle has suffered structural damage. This could include a bent or twisted chassis, or a crumple zone that has collapsed in a crash. Category S damage is more than just cosmetic, therefore, and the vehicle will need to be professionally repaired"
A Google quote.
So it's been damaged and repaired, but you can't really make a judgement from the pictures. Can't see cat S mentioned in the advert, maybe I missed it.
I am no expert on Jimny prices other than they tend to hold value and vary a lot. Me personally would walk away from the Cat S, they rust enough without assistance from accident damage and It's still a lot of cash at 10k. Just before the launch of the GEN4 a fully loaded G3 could be had for 14K on the road. Just for info.

Second one appeals more to me, but I would have to see it in the flesh....

Good luck.

Thank you both! Asked about rust in typical areas and he says there is none. Will try and go see today... you reckon 1k off the price shown is reasonable or a bit cheeky?

I have a friend who just bought a 2002 auto with 28k for £2300.....not a speck of rust!

Right now it's being stripped down and rustproofed...

They are out there at all ages in good condition.

No it's not cheeky, its all part of the dance.
Even if it was perfect I would start the offer lower, you are standing there offering to purchased and the sound of that cash can be enough to get the price down a little. If they won't budge it's your call.
Good luck.