If you are concerned about motor health, a simple compression test will give you an excellent idea of how well the combustion chamber is sealing. Most auto-part stores have the compression test kit that you can borrow from them for FREE. Seeing as you are pressed for time, i'd say you should buy any car that is going to last you a while. Don't risk buying a heavily modded car if you don't have the funds to repair it. Get something that looks nice, save your money, get the car you really want later. Have fun!
- Aaron