I would not buy one that smoked unless you are a good mechanic and got big discount. These engines do not smoke even with a lot of miles on them other than a small amount for just a few seconds at start up indicating wore valve quide seals. If it smokes at any other time I would say it is too big a risk. You should be able to find one that doesn't smoke. Take your time and look at several as you will learn something everytime you look at another car.