Car Search Guideance

[ILWYDFM]

I'm looking to purchase a 00-02 (or 03) Corolla as a cash car. My budget is around $4K for a 5SPD . I'm just trying to figure out if there's anything about these model years that i should avoid? Are there specific things I should look for that are typical problem areas. For instance I found a 00 with 89K miles for $3300. It's in excellent condition, but was stored for 4 years, and title offered to current owner as payment. Should I be concerned about a vehicle sitting that long?

[xentris02]

well i know 1998 to 02 wich is the 8th gen corollas had an oil burning issue basicaly some holes drilled into the piston for oil flow were super small and would clog easily. i say this happened to 75% or more of 8 gen corollas. i believe most had auto trans and commonly would burn up to a qt as low as every 400 miles. now mine is a 99 and it dosent burn its also a 5 speed stick. i also use mobil one extended performance oil wich is full synthetic. i use it because synthetic burns off slowly(tested in my ford ranger) and has great cleaning agents, but is expensive if you dont do your own oil change. so id say get an 03 or newer to be more safe, im not sure what problems they may have. as for any vehicle i buy i do a small tune up at least because most owners dont do shit to help life. so i suggest change plugs and fluids especially it it has been sitting. gas mileage is great though i cant complain for 40 highway with windows down and it filled past weigh limit doing about 80-90. im gonna warn you now traction isnt the greatest also largely depends on what tires you have and how much tread. look at www.edmunds.com for reviews as to problems these cars may have, this is a great place to start though hopeful some one may be of more help.