since I bought my R32 nearly a year ago I've had to go through a fair amount of repairs. Some of these things include:
fuel pump, clutch cylinders, alternator, head gasket.
Some of the things I need to fix are:
turbo gasket, gearbox, tie rods.
Overall it's a very reliable car if it's maintained well. Obviously my previous owner didn't. Because you're getting a 89 model, I'm guessing you're buying a non stock one? If anything I'd probably import a later model (93) but in stock form. They're fairly cheap to modify and get power from.
The only real weakness with the car would be the gearbox but that's only if you've got a lot of power.
Oh and this is my daily driver as I can't afford anything else. It is a pleasure to drive however in heavy traffic it becomes a burden.
If you're getting 3rd party only I'd at least get a tracking alarm like Quiktrack.