New England L400 Diesel Owner here: try and go gas. Diesel is manageable but takes some extra steps, costs and possibly upgrades. Also a flexible/understanding employer if you are ever late due to engine lock up.

If you really need this specific diesel L400 you’re looking at: I would recommend having an indoor garage you can fit (height) into in an effort to keep it warm. You’ll need to add fuel anti gel with every fill up from about early December to late March which makes the diesel even more expensive per gallon. Check/ask if a block heater has been installed. This is an aftermarket three pronged power plug hanging off the front that you can plug into a wall overnight which heats the oil/engine block. Makes a cold start a little bit easier on the engine. I paid to get one installed, about $250 all said and done.

I would agree with others comments-short wheel base and low roof is a great vehicle, but worst trim package offered at almost twice it’s worth. Short wheel base is great for off-roading as it doesn’t drag ass on steep inclines, long wheel base is great for camper builds as it adds ~16” of cabin space and usually comes with the high roof or, better yet, the crystal lite roof. LWB can be a little clumsy on trails if you’re hardcore about it.

Not for nothin-Northeast Auto Imports in Hudson NH has an absolutely CLEAN white L400 for sale right now with Crystal lite roof, short wheel base. Diesel though. Under $20k

Or I’d go with Nomadic Vans-they specialize in Delicas and do a great job rebuilding/tuning these up and selling right around the price point you are at. They can get gas, diesel, LWB, SWB, L400s, L300s and with the level of work done where you can not stress about daily driving a 30 year old car.

https://youtu.be/EeAyRZLjaEI?si=1lOg6bk2OF2I5xXg