0-60 is 7.7; 30-70 in 7.1; top whack 130mph; 1/4 mile just under 16 secs out of the box. But figures dont tell all! 16v has a limited torque spread: so its only moderately fast below 4500rpm - and it isnt a legendary hill racer. But, on the flat and at high revs, its very fast.
I run a 16v with 93k on the clock, but its (now) an absolute minter. So Id not let mileage prioritise over condition. Just this weekend I was speaking to a 16v owner replacing his steering rack on 52k - but mine is still fine on 93k!
Id like you to bear in mind that this list might make it sound as if theyre crappy cars. Theyre not, its just that I havent highlighted the strengths of the 16v here! This is in addition, of course, to the normal checks such as HPi, crash damage, etc etc.
The cars are fairly maintenace-intensive, but, as ever, the care it has received thus far will usually dictate condition. Look for a big folder of bills.
What you should then be looking for then can be split into categories:
Exterior: Rear arch lips are susceptible to rusting, front ones are plastic so arent a problem; rust also possible on door bottoms, around window rear quarters and boot bottom; front fogs (expensive) are prone to splitting due to stone chips; bonnet and front bumper also prone to stone chips.
Mechanical: N.B. due to engine size, many otherwise simple jobs on 16v/Willy are engine-out jobs
. Cambelts must have been done before 72k; diffs, gbox and clutch are all expensive jobs so check carefully; rear brake callipers can seize; check aftermarket exhaust mountings - often a poor fit; rumbling can be caused by poor exhaust manifold to downpipe gasket (cheap job, disturbing noise); erratic idle commonly due to faulty throttle potentionometer; 16v/Willy run hot, so check coolant system - hoses, rad, expansion tank, water pump, anti-percolation (if you can); engine mounts often go - embarassing and expensive to have your engine fall out, so see if engine rocks back and forth by opening bonnet and pulling accelerator cable; if car has induction kit check security of air hoses; check for snapped front springs; CV gaiters should be checked; handbrake is normally not good; if lowered, will need new front strut top mounts sooner or later.
Interior: Sunroofs leak; electic window switches are £20 - so check them too!
Hope this helps!
