I have heard some rather bad stories about the CRX.  I have had several people
relate to me that they had problems with the motors blowing.  I have also had
many other people tell me that this is not so and that this is a great car
(anyone out there confirm either of these POVs).  I would check this
reliability question out first.
Second, check the car over throughly like you would a Vanagon before you buy
it.  Look at oil, tranny fluid (auto), coolant.  Smell, look, taste (no you
don't have to go that far) and try to analylize what you are seeing.  Does the
oil smell like antifreeze?  Does the tranny fluid look brown and smell burnt,
etc.  Also be sure that the car is cold when you arrive by touching the engine
and heater hoses.  Guys love to cover up a hard starting or smoking car by
warming it up before you show up.  Listen to the engine.  Do you hear tapping
or knocking.  Look underneath for oil drippage when the motor first starts and
as it warms up.  Also note any coolant smell.  You really have to use all your
senses when evaluating a used car and even then you can't catch everything.  I
like to take a guy with me.  He might catch something I missed.
Drive the car.  Note all noises and try to identify them.  Does the engine
have a whirring noise?  Could be bad alternator, or waterpump.
Look under the car.  This is manitory to check for rust.
Also push on the four corners of the car and check out the suspension.
I run my diesel Jetta for normal point A to point B stuff and my Van when the
Family needs to go somewhere.  It is a great idea 'cause it will save you
money on fuel and wear and tear on the van and also exposure to salt in the
winter.
Have fun and I hope I helped.
Ken Wilford
John 3:16