+1 - last of the "proper" Ducatis (trellis frame, underseat exhausts, minimal electronics); if the budget allows, stretch it for the S model. Might not even loose too much money over the years?
I went for the 1098 over the 848 because of the power difference. I would have gone for the 1198 but I didn't have the pennies at the time. I am happy with the choice I made as I was upgrading from a GSX750 and what an upgrade it is.
I wanted the 1098 when it came out but kids & finance said no. Finally bought my S a couple of years ago. It’s still the most beautiful bike Ducati ever made IMO. I’d recommend staying upright on it though because it’s expensive when you don’t