The sephia can accurately be described thusly;  A car reasonably
inexpensive, fairly reliable that provides very basic transportation in a
decent enough looking package.  I own a Sephia and a Spectra and am
reasonably happy with both, but for long trips and places where image is an
issue, i.e. taking a client to lunch, etc. I prefer to drive my other car.
But that is a vanity issue that I should resolve. Other than that, the cars
are great.

I own a 98 Sephia (5-speed) and I like it.  So far it has given me
reliable transportation, only going back to the dealer mechanic to fix
recall issues.  That's one thing you might want to ask about too; make
sure all the recall issues (ORVR Valve, brakes, something in the
windshield washer system, and the seatbelt latch) have already been
taken care of.  Some may not even apply to the 2000 model.

There are a couple aesthetic problems, which may or may not actually
come up with your model.  For me, these are small issues.

As you mentioned, the engine noise in the cabin gets pretty loud at
highway speed.  Also, the car's cornering ability is not great.

There is a fuse panel pretty close to the clutch, so I occasionally
kick the cover off by accident, as it is not really a tight fit over
the panel.

There is no light in the trunk.  It's a little difficult getting
things in the dark.

yes they are very good i race mine my car is totaly stock like factory  no added parts clocked at 135mph and thats cash races the legal kind 1year still going strong