I've had a 1st gen (87) and currently drive a 2nd gen (1993). Love the thing. Base model 3.2 SOHC 5-speed; get 18 mpg in mixed driving (more if I keep speeds down). Manual hubs with lever-shifted TC. Very comfortable, quiet, and smooth. Uses 1 quart of oil per month, and is a gutless wonder. The best thing, and it's hard to describe, is that the front end feels "tight". no slop at all. I don't flog this car off road but I've taken my share of trips through Idaho basalt.

I'm amazed at how many early 2nd gens I'm seeing in the sub-$2000 range. Bargain.

Good luck