Hi mate,
Where abouts out of dundee?
1. VQ denotes it always been a Nissan engine but it has been used in renaults in different tunes but really who cares. There is 3 different versions 276, 296, 313. The 276 and 313 are regarded as the most bulletproof and easiest to mod.
2. Buy on condition not miles. Clicking axles or sloppy suspension isn't good.
3. Again buy on condition not miles. The engines are generally strong but check gearbox, clutch etc. A well cared 100k is better than a hammered 50k car.
4. Generally reliable, 9k service interval on motorway 28-30mpg and around town 18-24mpg.
I would say drive one first they are alot slower than what you think.