Around 5:30 this afternoon, I am going to look at a 1988 Volvo 740 Tubo wagon with about 150,000 miles on it. This will be a first work car for a youg 23 yr old male who rents a room from me. I would appreciate any advice on things to look for during the inspection and test drive, and if you think I should have a mechanic look it over. Here is what I have so far:

Ask about sellers knowlege of oil change history and check oil for any frothing after the engine has been running.

Check coolant resivour for any signs of oil in the coolant.

Seller says there is a tapping noise that is intermittant. I am thinking simple valve adjustment, but I need to go hear this first.

A freind I have with a 1987 Volvo 740 Turbo wagon says they are fairly easy to work on and if the turbo needs replacement, I could probably get a used one for about $250.

Here is an update,
I test drove this car, and it drives nice, but it has a loud lifter noise. I think a valve adjustment will take care of this, but it is also burning some oil and so I have decided to have a Volvo speciallist inspect it tomorrow and help me know if there are any pitfalls I should be aware of.