To sucessfully own one of these cars you must be handy with your own maintainence. Whatever you do, don't take it to the dealership to change the oil (it will cost more than you can imagine possible), or to say "See whats wrong with it, and fix them." because you will pay more than you paid for the car by a factor of three or four.

My car has 260k on the original engine and turbo, and the turbo works great, so don't assume that if its old, it must be bad, these turbos rarely go out, and there about 100 different things that can make it slow off the line that isn't related to the turbo.

Have a family member who's good with cars? Have them help you learn the basic tasks like oil changes and whatnot. You can work your way up, but oil changes are a good place to start. Get a Haynes manual right away, and search here for more information when you are about to start a project.

Your car looks like a good one, and, properly cared for it should last a loooong time, but you'll need to take some initiative in caring for it yourself. Save the mechanic for the serious problems, and find recommendations for a reliable independent mechanic, never go to the dealer.

Welcome to the club!

peace,
sam

__________________
"That f***in' biodiesel is makin' me hungry."

1982 300TD Astral Silver w/ 250k (BIO BNZ)
2001 Aprilia SR50 Corsa Red w/ 5.5k (>100 MPG)