I have just received my PPI report for a 2002 sentra spec v with about 45k original miles, manual of course, mods include coilover springs/shocks, air intake, short shifter, exhaust upgrade, brakes upgrade, and a SAFC. Not a mod but AC still blows ice cold. It's a pretty awesome price at less than $3k, it will definitely needs close to $2k in repairs to be a reliable driver, or so the service advsior says. Drives like a bat out of hell, engine sounds great, short shifter gate was something to get used to, and seemed a little stiff between 1st and 2nd, relatively easy 3-6, and the clutch was feeling very stiff, however needed to be fully depressed before shifting (I am unsure if this means anything, report did not mention transmission needed work, however did not mention it was inspected.) Current owner has tracked the car a handful of times. The major problems is the rack and pinion needs replacing, new motor mounts, and new tires. Other smaller things such as an alignment, windshield fluid reservoir holder is broken, sway bars getting loose, belts showing some age, and the parking brake needing to be pulled very high before engaging. The only code it is showing is for an o2 sensor, which my guess is because the pre-cat has been replaced with an aftermarket header, thankfully. 

With this crazy market, finding something similar for less than $6k without needing more than routine maintenance has been tough. after extensive research, I would be conservatively looking at about $6400, including purchase of car, to handle all repairs listed. Is this engine/car reliable enough to last several years with only minor maintenance? Is the o2 sensor and easy fix to bypass and pass emissions? I imagine all $3-$5k cars will need work, are there even any options that come with manual, and mileage lower than 200k? Other than the rare unicorn? (looking at all the hondas and toyotas listed all over AZ)

Thanks in advance!