you've gotta keep your eyes open for quite a lot with these things! First thing is to look for a FULL service history and a lot of receipts for work done. Most of these cars are on high miles now, its worth spending the money and a minter with low mileage, becuase a higher mileage car will cost you all sorts in maintenance.
Make sure that any car has had its cambelt changed around the 70k mark, as this is one of the most expensive thing to have done as its an engine out job, and also because it will cause endless amounts of damage if it snaps! Check that its had driveshafts replaced also as these are another expensive repair and are quite common faults on 16v's. Engine mounts are another common fault with the engine being so big and heavy, the mounts themselves are cheap enough but again its an engine out job to replace them.
bit of a warning for you though, i bought one of these things a few years ago, bought a minter but had high miles (100k) for £3000, but in an 18 month period i spent over £3000 again in repairs.
They are wicked cars though, and if you keep your wits about you, and take your time to find a mint example with full service history, and maintanance record, then theres no reason that you shouldn't have hassle free motoring
also worth noting that some clio williams' are available for maybe £1k-1.5k more than a 16v and most are maintained to a higher standard than 16v's with them being a limited edition iconic car!
hope this helps, please pm me if you have any questions as ive got a fair bit of experience with these cars
