I spent a good half year restoring one of these cars and I offer some tips and observations.
If the motor has not had a periodic valve height adjustment, you can tell by the loud tapping sound in the upper motor area. Peel off the valve cover and inspect the cam lobes and tappet surfaces. Any mushrooming or wear is not worth the repair.
Watch the rear shocks for creaking and squealing. That's an expensive replacement. If the rear SLS has been removed, do not get the car. Test the door locking vacuum pump and be sure to check the antenna motor.
Watch for rear electrical wiring problems like non-working tail lamps or trunk light.
Front steering requires a check of the idler arm bushing as well as tie rod ends and the ball joints. You can expect to replace all upon receipt of the car. However, the steering sector should be good.
Interior plastic trim seems to be easily available at the dealer for very low prices. However, rear foot well carpeting is gone. All cladding is gone as well. So if some panel is missing, you're stuck.
If the car has specific issues, please ask. Photos are especially helpful.
