When you done your quote's, i take it you declared the engine? It would most likely put the price up abit, but at your age i doubt it would shoot up tbh. Even though i dont like the look of it, it is quite a nice car to drive, but not as nice as my big'un (
) but mine is an M so thats probably why
.
The engines are strong on these. Seing as this one has had a 1.8 fitted, it may have replaced due to failure of the original. Whether this was down to the 1.6 being thrashed, or the hunt for more power (or maybe just a genuine breakdown!) i dont know but if you go to see the car, obviously check the engine's condition, but also check the gearbox and clutch for any sign's of sloppyness or wear. Also, check the clutches pressure plate. To do this, start the car in neutral, and slowly press/release the clutch. You need to listen out for a slight rattling noise. The best way to explain it is the sound of a bunch of ball bearings shaking round in a metal can. If there is that noise when the clutch is realesed (in neutral) then the pressure plate is kaput!
I would'nt imagine, that with that age and mileage, that there will be much rust (if any) on the car. Check the obvious places like arches and other panels, but a common place is the sills. If you can get to them, check BEHIND the sills facing inwards. This is a common place for them to rot, which then eats into the floorpan. Another not so common, yet still spoke of spot is the rear suspension mounts. This is not so common though so not much of a worry.
Hope i've helped.
Feel free to PM me if you need any more help bud.