The guys at Columbia Rovers here in Portland all still swear by LR3s (for sure over LR4s) and are getting closer to the 300k mark on some of their vehicles.
If I were in your shoes it would be a tough call, one of the things I value with my LR3 is that I know what has been done and what feels solid. It also doesn't look older than 7 years even though it's a 2005 - so the condition of the paint and interior are important there too. If I found a gem of a 2009 LR3 with all the right features and I was in your shoes . . . I might go for it . . . otherwise fix and love.
Good luck, let us know what you decide!
It is in their best interest to have owners hand on as long as possible and pump money into their rides...
I would try to fix the jerky transmission with a 100% fluid change and ignore the fuel gauge (for now). Otherwise it is worth peanuts. V6 or V8?