If you do nothing else, get someone from your local Viper Club (don't know which CA club is near you) to talk to you to answer some questions, and, more importantly, check out the car you plan to buy (if it's local). If you're looking at buying a car out of state, check with that VCA region's president -- he might be able to have someone look at the car, and maybe save you a wasted trip. The VCA is a resource -- use it. (And join VCA after you buy!) Good luck!