Arguments pro and con:

Con: Yeah, the 2.6 L motor is a bit anemic. Also, Kelly Blue Book values have never been kind to Isuzu, so any hope of resale value is unfounded. In other words, you are making a long term purchase here, one you would have to keep until dead as you have little hope of re-couping any of the money.

Pro: Where else are you going to find a good, solid, reliable vehicle for $1200, let alone a 4x4. If it has no rust anywhere, and you like the vehicle, and it runs well and has a good tranny, clutch, wheels, tires, brakes, etc., then you really can't go wrong, not at that price. The 2.6 liter motor, while being a bit down in power, is very reliable. My '93 Amigo had that motor, and it was fine for everything except towing my ski boat any further than the local launch. (although the Amigo is lighter than the Trooper). Bottom line is this: You like it, then buy it. If you harbor any doubts, then walk away.