Check to see if the heater core has been replaced, that was really the only major problem from the factory. Unless you're keen on having heat, I would just bypass it.

Are you just looking for tips/advice on what to look at for the purchase, or also for the performance/handling aspects?

EDIT: Check to see if...

the diff. rivets were replaced with the bolt kit yet.

there is still one of those nasty hydraulic front motor mounts

If you can PM me the VIN number I can give you all the factory info (what factory it was made at, and those goodies.)