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As a brand new vx owner I'll bite:
As far as what to look out for, one of the real problem areas for vx's is rust behind the rear wheel opening and around the wheel well in general. Now being from Cali that probably won't be an issue for you, but just remember people (and shops) make some pretty substandard repairs. If you want to make sure that you aren't getting yourself into trouble there, just make sure that there have been no previous repairs to the area (or if there were that they were done correctly). As someone who runs a part time paint and body shop let me tell you this type of repair work can exceed the value of the car in a hurry. Anyway you probably won't see that problem.
The one common problem I see with vx ownership is sooner or later the o2 sensor (LAF) fails. Then you have to pony up the dough for a new one which can range from $80 to $450 depending on where you purchase it (most say go with a genuine dealer item, or at least L1h1).
As for what to pay... A car is only worth what YOU are willing to pay for it. A car really is both a head and heart decision. That said, if it is a real low mileage clean car I would say $3,500 wouldn't be too much ( I paid $450 for mine but admittedly it needs some TLC). Just think of the potenetial fuel savings over the next 100K miles!
All in all I love mine so far, and think I will only grow to like it more.
As for the swap I have never done one, but it looks fairly simple all things considered. Someone else with experience will weigh in on this I am sure.
Cole
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