mt700a1

I am looking at an 87 GL Hatch 4wd with 4spd manual trans. The transmission was described as "a little funny" by the owner but it drove fine. When I drove it it felt fine too, but maybe the "friction zone" of the clutch was a little narrow (it wasn't bad but felt a little bit like an on/off switch to me). It does not slip. He said something about clutch cable adjustment but I am not sure exactly. I don't have much experience with manual shift. Are there known issues with manual transmissions from this era? The car has a little over 100,000 miles. Also, with this 4spd, is it possible to cruise on interstate at 70-75 mph without straining the engine too much? I really like the car and am already excited about buying it. Thanks! mt700a1

Allow me to point out the most obvious... Is the gas gauge functioning properly?

Thanks for encouraging comments. I have a few more questions. Does it have an "ENG" warning light that comes on every 60,000 miles? I was told that this comes on at that interval regardless of the engine condition. Also, how hard is it to replace the timing belt? I read that the valves are non-interference type which means you don't ruin the engine if the timing belt snaps.. you just can't drive until a new one is put on. Is that true for '87 GL?

So it was an instant love with the '87 GL 3dr hatchback, 4spd manual, 4wd with working AC. A bit of rust only around the rear fenders, scratched side windows from tint removal attempt, but otherwise meticulously maintained judging from the repair records. It sounded real smooth and ran great even on the freeway at 65mph. May need $100 more to pass the stringent Maryland inspection, but hey a good running car with AC for less than $1000 sounds not too bad to me. The owner is asking $850 for it as is, but is it worth that much in your opinion? Bluebook value for one in a "good" condition is $830. It has 122K miles on it. I think it will grow on me and in the end a few hundred bucks in the purchase price will be insignificant, but I want experts' opinions. This will be my first Subaru. Any input including what to watch out for will be greatly appreciated. Thanks, mt700a1