[mikracer]

So besides the newer ac/heater controls, what distinguishes a 97 from a 97.5? Also, do the 97.5's have the easier setup for alignment, or do all 97 models have the shim system? Is there a way to check for it?

The quest to get a 97.5 is actually alive again. The one I originally was thinking about getting is still available. Again, its got 81k miles with no documentation of it getting its motor replaced, but from what people have said, it shouldnt be a problem this late in the game. I'll probably run a block test kit on it to see if theres any exhaust gasses in the radiator. If that checks out, then I guess I can feel somewhat comfortable that it should be fine.