Toyota Repair: 2000 Toyota Celica, clutch replacement, toyota celica

Question
My 16 year old son is looking at buying his first car, a 2000 Celica 1.8L, 5 speed.  It is on a used car lot for $3,900 with 145,000 miles.  We are not sure of the previous owner, or how well the vehicle was maintained.  We drove the car and it rode and handled well, even over speed bumps,  had very good acceleration with no noticeable noises, and the body being in good shape. Before buying,I plan on taking the car to a  place that performs pre-purchase inspections.  Does the timing chain need to be changed at any particular interval as I've seen conflicting answers to this question (150,000 miles, only as needed, etc.)?  What else do I need to be aware or concerned with on a 2000 Celica, as he spending the majority of his money for the initial purchase and would not have money left over for repairs? I would appreciate your expertise regarding this vehicle.  Thanks

Answer
That's a lot of miles on a Celica of that vintage.
Many of those cars are abused by previous owners, especially
a 5 spd. Many of them are burning oil with that many miles. (trust me I buy cars).
Clutch replacement is expensive, it will be ready for one soon.
If not a first time driver will wear out the clutch soon. EXPECT to put a lot of money into it !
I'd advise a more practical Toyota with an automatic. I know what
I was like at that age.....