What have I bought??

[Condi]

One for all you out there, Ive acquired myself a new set of wheels - a 1985 Mazda 626. Its got 225k (km) on the clock and has a 3 speed or 4 speed auto transmission. Can anyone tell me about how reliable they are, or what to look out for? Im going to get round to a full service - spark plugs, oil + filter, coolant flush etc. Is there anything specific to do with the auto box - ive never had an auto before. Would it also be worth doing a cam belt change. I know nothing of the service history, and dont know how often its been sat/used.

Also, a funny one earlier. Checked the oil and water before setting off on an hour journey, and upon arriving at the destination there seemed to be less water than before - but only in the radiator. Before I set off the water was to the top of the filler cap, and when I finished it wasnt, but the header tank still had the same ammount in. I know the header tank is connected, if you lift it up then water comes out the top of the radiator (with the cap off). Oil and water arnt mixing as far as I can tell. Certainly no oil in the water or creamy stuff in the oil. Also, I filled it back up and ran the car watching it, and when I revved it up I got a few big bubbles come out the top of the radiator? Any ideas?

[JohnnyJones]

Yes.

Head gasket possibly.

Make sure it's bled properly (worth a google in case there's a little bleed screw somewhere) and run it again. If it still loses water and there's no leaks or evidence of it coming out of the header tank then I'm afraid it's being turned into steam by the engine due to a leaking head gasket.

[Condi]

I ran it for an hour or so earlier, and the water didnt go down, so think it may have just been from being stood? Anyone else know anything about these cars??