Hi i have recently bought a MK2 16v, there is a good buying guide on
http://www.matey-matey.comMAin body work things are
is it straight been crashed? any bodged repairs filler?
rust near wiper hole that is not used on the front
rusty tailgate near the number plate lights
rusty rear arches under the plastic covers
Than usual mechanical stuff, brakes warped maybe driven hard?
suspension ok?
engine noises especially on 16v on start up = tappets
smoking (blue) on start up = burning oil
may on oil cap = potential head gasket problems
Interior
usually have a worn drivers seat bolster, if its done hardly any miles and the seat is done in why? been clocked its really easy to do
general condition
Service history is good but mine didnt have any (had been lost)
all original kit is good too like bbs RA alloys
original mats, stereo etc so bit havent been cut up to shoe horn stereo gear in.
The 16v is insurance group fifteen i think and 8v 14, the 16v if faster and personally woth the bit extra
i paid £1650 for a j plate with 80k on the clock all original with two owners in the same family as a guide, but i thought that was cheap
Also don't just get taken by the moment (we have all been there) and buy a poor car, wait go see a few, drive some etc
Hope this helps
Tim