Originally Posted by WarChild

I would count mileage as doing more damage over time than age.

If you can get someone to help you check out a few things out on your perspective purchase, it will be a big help.

Compression test is easy to do. I can probably even tell you how to do it on the internet, it's pretty simple. This will tell you a bit about what kind of shape the engine is in. Are the all cylinders running well or have one or more lost compression?

If it's an automatic, check the transmission fluid. It shouldn't be burnt.

Check the oil that's in the engine. Is it fairly clean or jet black? If it's jet black it's been in the engine too long and speaks to the kind of care the previous owner has given to the engine.

These are just a few simple things to check, the list could go on and on. Try and find a friend with a little knowledge to help.