I will try to see if there is a day I can go SEE the Nyc Blue Subie. It looks like it's a beat up on the outside, MIGHT be okay on the inside.. car.
Head gaskets are what I'd be staring at the exhaust about. I've developed a bunch of different ways to see if something isn't quite right. This also includes blipping the throttle, sometimes that hesitation can be a failing HG if it is accompanied by any abnormal steam or water out of the exhaust pattern... There is normal "The car is warming up, condensation" smoke/steam and there is "There is water being forcefully ejected out of the exhaust abnormally" steam/smoke.
I am now a bit curious about the car
But you are correct, this should be treated more as a curio than a "I have to have this car."
That helps a negotiating tactic, too.
I wonder what would happen if my first offer was $500 cash. If it passes muster.. and we negotiate.. is it better to offer 500 or 700 at first? I'm not paying more than $1000 if it is to be sold.
"RARE" Manual I would think is only thing it has FOR it, but, as mentioned.. that's the anchor around its neck?