Welcome Kersh, get bored ranting and raving with the nuts on the octane.ie forums?
To break it down to basics, theres 3 main models:
GS - DE2A 1.8L 125PS
GR - DE3A 2.0L V6 170PS (180PS in 97+ models)
GPX - DE3A 2.0L V6 MIVEC 200PS
The 4 speed Tip gearbox in the press 97 models is known to be weaker than the 5 speed Tip in 97+ models. If the ATF hasn't been changed regularly during the life of the car, then theres a change of gearbox failure on higher milage motors
The 5-speed tip box on the other hand is pretty bullet proof, in saying that, the vast majority of FTOs in this country are 94-96 models, newer (facelift) models tend to be thin on the ground. If you want more info, check out the
buying guide on the main part of the site.
CJ