potential owner with questions

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Welcome Michael,
As others have said, these cars are pretty straightforward as to DIY repairs and maintenance providing you are willing to own a handful of specialty tools. I own a 98 and have a personal preference for the first gen cars. When buying, a detailed service history is King and spending $150 quid on a pre-purchase inspection is well worth the trouble. Tires, clutch, IMS, and suspension are now due on most of the early cars and might add up to a pretty penny if not already done. Good luck and good hunting!