So what should i look for?

[midwayavenue]

so i'm probably getting into a used mazda 3 s hatchback, 2004 with 80k miles..the guy was selling it for 7999 but i got him down to 7200...seems to be in nice condition moon roof, 5spd not sure the exact color but the cars has that electric blue look.. before i make the desicion to buy it is there anything specific i should look for..bad good??? .I don't know too much about mazda3 's.. comming from my 2000 Pontiac Trans Am..that car isnt a great daily driver anymore.and now looking for a something reliable and comfortable to drive..like a mazda 3 for kinda cheap..dont have too much money to spend....so does this sound like a decent deal..? also whats different with the 2.3l engine from 2004 and say 05-06..the reason asking cause on consumer reports the 04 engine (minor problems) in the hatchback didnt do so well compared with the rest of the years just curious why
thanks for any help

 

[brian2029]

i got my 3 used 06 with 21k on it for 15k
still with factory warranty

 

[midwayavenue]

i don't plan on spending over 7500..trying to save up for a 2006 Pontiac GTO..i just need a nice daily driver..and i really like the mazda 3's..so yep..lol