Used Cars: How about the older catera, cadillac catera, chevy malibu

Question
Ok, now I'm looking at a 97 cadillac catera with only 54,000 miles. It's a shale color with leather interior and bucket seats and looks pretty dang good for it's age. I was looking at a 2001 mazda 626 which of course is newer.  Yikes now don't know what would be a better car for me.  The cost factor of over a 1,000. less is intriguing to have a cuter and sporty looking car.  What about the the older catera's are they an ok car?

Answer
I am not as impressed with the catera, it is basically a chevy malibu with a lot of electrical stuff and leather stuffed in it. Could be more to break, but the miles are really really good, maybe I need to move to Florida.  If you really like it better than the 626 then drive them both and see how they drive, if you have done that then buy the one you like the most, if you buy the caddy save the 1000 you saved for any repairs that may come up,( a self insured warranty if you will), but before you buy either do a carfax on them to make sure everything is up and up.  

good luck
zach