to be honest, there isn't a huge degradation in the RMS until it is starting to leak. When you start getting a leak the seal is clogged and unseated. Usually if its a small leak, AutoRX and cleaning the PCV system will get it re-seated and problem solved.


If I were you, (it would be nice to have 10k+ to spend!) I'd be looking at the 850-early '70s (s, v, xc). At 2-3k they're a bargain. Usually you'll find a few that have been maintained. The seats are nice and comfortable. I don't know if you do your own work, but you put another 1000 into it (PCV, brakes, Trans/Coolant/Power Steering/Brake flushes, maybe A/C depending on what you find, tires, Cabin filter) and it'll be good for 50-100k. Using synthetic and changing 5-7k will eliminate your PCV clogging (and therefore most seals blowing out)...

Then you can use the rest to buy 2-3 more, might as well take a different car everyday!