Things to check carefully on any 166.
1, Central locking. If it all works this is a bonus.
2, ICS..does it work/have code/ DSP and six stack CD player? if so then happy days.
3, Check floor pans, the rear of the central chassis rails as they narrow, and the join at the rear of the sill carefully for rust. It can be nipped in the bud, but they start to go in these areas...also top of rear turrets and inside front wheel splash guard..but these are hard to check on a purchase visit.4, V6es...the oil cooler pipes..
4, Twinnies...same as 156/147s do the research but the engine isn't generally as strong as the V6. However, they can still do 200,000 miles with normal servicing. Better one that has been used regularly, than one that has sat about.
With these engines, their early life has something to do with it...if they were "run in carefully" then they will always use oil.
If they were thrashed early, then they don't seem to burn so much...counter intuitive, but there you go.
5, Clutches on manuals. They can get heavy as they wear. Better to replace before they are totally shot, as heavy pedal = strain on pedal box/crank bearings.
6, aircon. My 166 leaked like a sieve because the previous owner never bothered getting it regassed and all the seals dried up. However, magic snake oil potion actually restored the system and now it holds pressure forever...amazing. Also, check the climate control fan.
7, Don't be unduly concerned if there is film of engine oil in the coolant expansion tank. This is normal (for V6 engines...I don't know about twinnies)
8, Suspension. Expect to spend some cash on new parts...better to get it all done nicely....
9, Exhaust. Back boxes weigh half a ton (on V6es) and they don't like short journeys. IMASAF is close to original (don't bother with the IMASAF supplied mounts..they are crap) or various stainless for less weight/longetivity...but do the research because a 166 with a boomy exhaust is an anathema.
10, Sticky soft interior parts..glove box lid, central console. Par for the course. Can be scrubbed off (do research, cos the colour will come off too if not black already) or rattle can of lacquer will cover it.
11, Check the electrics. 4 x windows (lack of use can be recovered with a bit of silicon spray). Driver's door switches are common to break.
Also, fuel flap/boot button (in glove box!).
Having said all that...if that silver 166 is serviceable and decent...then at under £1000 there isn't that much downwards haggle room!