Well, I've done it... went for the R model in the end and I'm chuffed to bits with it. I managed to get a pristine 03 plate with just over 3000 miles. It's an absolute credit to the last owner who obviously cherished it and was gutted to see it go.
Thanks to all of you who posted advice.
Roll on spring time!!!
[Edited on 25-1-2006 by ChrisG]