Hmm, thanks Bob. More and more this car seems like it probably isn't the right one. Between the skeptical response of the mechanic today and the inconsistent info from the seller, it might be a bad idea unless I could get it for $5 or $6K?

I'm not qualified to do the work myself, so right away I'd be in for $4-5K in axle replacement and trans rebuild at the garage.

Need to stop getting my hopes up, ugh.