[bcrdukes]

Things to look for (off the top of my head)

1. Receipts/maintenance log book - the seller better have them.
2. Cooling system - weak points are the radiator end tanks (has the rad been replaced?) thermostat, water pump (updated to metal impeller, not OEM plastic)
3. Steering rack - these are usually ok but check for leaks at the boots, power steering hose, resevoir etc
4. Suspension - ball joints, all bushings, rear shock mounts, shocks, sway bar endlinks (if applicable)
5. AC compressor - if there's AC, make sure it works.
6. Transmission - Guibo, transmission mounts, centre support bearing - these are important to check and must be functional or maintained/replaced during the Inspection I/II mileage intervals

Otherwise, everything else are aesthetics and/or glitches that come with an old car. The plastics on the E36 aren't that great so if a few tabs or side pockets are broken, those are to be expected. Sagging glove box - expected. Electricals - should be good overall. Don't be surprised if the on-board computer display panel has burnt out display bits.

The E36 chassis is great. I absolutely love them. I highly recommend you have the car go through a pre-purchase inspection through the specialty shops such as Nixon and CG Motorsports etc. A $200 inspection could save you thousands in the end. Good luck!