NISSAN specialist Jerry Newman reckons the plug is over-tightened. It's a tapered plug with a 3/8-inch square drive. Use the correct-fitting tool and get a long lever for plenty of leverage.

THE N14 Pulsar (1991-1995) was a great small car, but there's always a risk in buying a car that's 10 or more years old. When we reviewed the N14 Pulsar, we found one that had done more than 300,000km without giving major trouble. On average an N14 will have done 130,000 to 180,000km and would be worth a risk. Look for one with low mileage, in good condition with a good service history.

Your need for a 1998 or later model for $10,000 makes things difficult. I would recommend you try a Nissan Pulsar N15 which was introduced in 1995 -- it's well built, reliable and has good resale value.