Current shape or "Classic" ?

All in all, the Classic is the better car, as the early mk2 were fraught
with problems, usually electrical, electronic, software and trim issues.

Anyway, if its a T5 it will have a B2345Tx engine. All engines have a white
sticker on the cambelt cover depicting which is fitted. Viz:-

B2545x- 2.5 20valve in either naturally aspirated (S or F) or low pressure
turbo (Tx) where x could be a 1,2,3,4.

For both models- look for evidience of service history, lots of dealer
stamps is nice, dont buy without. History and general condition is much more
important than mileage. Beware clocking-they cover the miles well.

Otherwise-

Classic;
a) air con evap leaking.- dash out job. (expensive!)
b) clunking front suspension, saggy rear. Evidence of heavy towing- not
good. If its got self levelling, check for leaking dampers- expensive to
replace. If its got s/levellers and its sitting arse down, again walk away.
c) ABS / TRACS warning light on (expensive)
d) poor cold starting, poor idling- see e)
e) problems with the ETS and /or engine management light on.
f) irregular front tyre wear. NB T5's will need new rubber every
10-12,000miles. Manuals are worse! 2.5T's are much kinder on the tyres.
g) drivers side electric window switch pack disintegrating. VERY scarce to
find used and new ones 75quid +vat.

mk2

a) flakey dash warning lights. Error messages, fault lamps flickering on and
off. Software issues, but not always fixed with an upload.
b) engine flaring between gearchanges- software issues- have latest version
uploaded.
c) jerky changes, dropping into neutral when coasting, infact anything
strange in the transmission deptartment- have latest software uploaded. This
does NOT always fix it entirely.
d) poor paint work, stone chips etc around the nose.
e) poor idling, poor hot starting, poor cold starting, poor mpg (VCT unit
faulty or stuck)
f) irregular front tyre wear. A proper laser alignment session usually sorts
it, but again upwards of 50quid. Tyres are dear so have to be wearing
properly.
g) Fault with radiator fans causing electrical fire - is recall about this.
h) Electric seats not working
j) remote locking playing up.

For a T5 you'll get low 20's in town, early 30;s on a run. For a 2.5T add
4-5mpg.