Older vehicle, low miles v newer vehicle higher miles? Buying question. (gaskets, van)

[chiroptera]

I've decided to start seriously shopping for another used work/cargo van - probably a Ford E120 or similar. I plan on spending $6,000-7,000.
In this price range, I see some older (mid-late 90s) vans with well under 100K that look pretty clean. Or newer vans with higher miles.

I'm not concerned much with safety/comfort features; I realise newer vehicles may have the edge there.
I am not willing to buy anything that's dented up or very rusty - in fact I'm looking at southern states because the rust issue is so bad here in Michigan.
I'm not going to buy anything with over, say, 180K on it, even if it's only two years old and looks brand new.
I understand that at this price point, either way, I'll be buying a well-used vehicle.

Everything else being equal, what are the pros and cons of older/lower miles v newer/high miles?

[KevinE]

Originally Posted by chiroptera

Everything else being equal, what are the pros and cons of older/lower miles v newer/high miles?

With older vehicles/lower mileage you have issues with synthetics deteriorating with age. Hoses, belts, seals, greases, gaskets, bushings, brake lines, fuel lines... etc.

With new vehicles/higher mileage you have issues with parts wear.

[VeeGer]

Yep, it's one or the other.

I bought a 2003 Ford Taurus with 83K in Dec 2008. The car is still solid at 91K today. Yea, I don't drive much.

[crestliner]

Much depends on just what model it is.An older car that has less than average miles with a reputation for good service is a good gamble . A newer car that has had many recalls and customer complaints is not. You need to always do some research before you buy any car.