IMHO, the big thing to look for on the 00-04 is cracks in the rear sub-frame. There are literally dozens of threads on it here, but this one has a good picture and I can’t find Grant’s original thread on the subject right now.
I’m not sure if the eL’s from that era are subject to this failure or not, as they have a different set-up (at least mine does)
Leaking gearbox input shaft seal or bad input shaft. If it’s a bad leak, you’ll see it on the outside of the motor. Bad input shaft, you’ll hear it under heavy acceleration. Barking on deceleration is typically just a bad shaft bumper, couple dollars and an hour or so to fix the first time.
Bad wheel bearings. You’ll hear it when you drive, and when you turn.
Cracks in the steering column bracket
Brakes, shocks and steering ball joints condition. Sloppy loose steering might be a steering rack problem.
What charger is installed. If you ever plan to do a battery upgrade, even if it’s just to gel, certain chargers of that era will not be compatible and you’ll be buying a new charger.
Delaminating clear coat on the hood & fenders if you’re into cosmetics. Seems like they all fail eventually if left out in the sun.