Went to look at a Firenza yesterday, its been years since I saw a coupe. Owner was very anxious to sell. Price was around the scrap figure.

No inspection for 2 years. I was told the head gasket was going because the water level was dropping and vapor out the tail pipe. As time went on, the car ran very rough at startup.

Water was drained to "save" the engine from further damage (4 cylinder 1.8).

Going to try to start this weekend. The idea of the cooling system being drained and sitting for 2 years has me concerned.

Any tips?

 

My parents had 3 simular cars(buick skyhawk) all with the 1.8. They were all reliable cars put about 150k on 2 of them. the 3rd was totaled by an off duty cop that wasn't paying attention and rear ended my mom. I don't know about having no water in it. It could be better than having a bunch of acidic crud sitting in it.
Larry