Big thanks to everyone who answered my post a while back. You've been really helpful and I'm surprised how many of you have gone through the same thinking as me.
After months of thinking it over I've made a decision. In the end the heart beat the head and I'm keeping the Mk1 LCR. I may live to regret it, because at 125k+ the risk of big expenses increases. Clutches and turbos come to mind. On the other hand, the car looks mint, is totally original and has been immaculately maintained. I know it's been done properly because I've done everything myself since the warranty expired, except for a couple of suspension jobs that needed equipment I didn't have.
I'll let you know if I end up with egg on my face, but at present I still get a rush of enthusiasm every time I get into the car.
Thanks again everybody!