Well, here are your problem spots on all Metros: Dashboard fade (who cares) and lower control arms rusting out. This is very bad because the car will come apart! I would inspect the control arms of any potential Metro very carefully!!!
1.0L 3cyl Metro: These have problems dropping a cyl. Usually it is #2, or #1. This could be due to the design of the EGR sys. or the PCV sys. Here is a good build thread on the 1.0L to give you an idea. It's a pretty simple engine:
http://ecomodder.com/forum/showthrea...ject-2936.html
Most 1.0Ls did not come with a/c due to the lack of engine power, but you can occasionally find them. Cruise control was an option you may or may not find.
The 1.3L was a bit more stable than the 1.0 and had more power, but did not have near the MPGs of the 3 cylinders of screamin" fury.
Do not buy an automatic trans. The MPGs were down in the high 30s, and they did not have and Overdrive! The manual 5 speed is the way to go!
All of the 96 and newer had 13" wheels, and the seats were not too bad, at least a lot better than the early Metros. I drive right at 80 miles a day and have no complaints.