Sorry but I think its a little misleading to say a "Good" TDV8 can be had for £16000.

There are a few cars with more than 80,000 miles but even a good 85000 mile 2006/56 plate should retail at £19000 and if its not then there is probably a reason.

Ok, I understand that, but if you're looking at a TD6 for £18k I'd find the other £1k and get a good TDV8. I think we can all agree they're at least £1k better.

Speaking as an owner of a TD6!

There's a nice TDV8 advertised earlier in this thread for just under £18k @ a main dealer. I thought GE was using that as a benchmark example to prove the point

They are out there but not very often as has been shown they tend to be through an auction or the like or classed as trade sales. You takes your chances though so worth a full inspection on one really. Dont be too stuck on mileage though. generally if its done less mileage it could either have spent a long time not being used or more than likely been doing the school, shopping, gym runs for a wag or the likes and not really have got fully warmed up during the colder periods of weather which isn't good for any mechanicals.

If bodywork is a little rough i wouldn't worry if the mechanics are sounds as any 5-7year old car will have some marks and if it doesn't then its had a detailing or bodywork done recently on it.

At the end of the day if you have bought used cars before just use your gut instinct if its served you well before but do check history and condition as condition is the main criteria we tend to recommend on here to look at  FFRR MY06 facelift With TDV8 Alloys Zeros/ATR's
Mantec Sump Guard, Rigid Load liner, MY10 BT upgrade.

All really useful stuff, thank you.

Waiting to hear back about that TDV8 at the LR dealer in South Wales.