Hey Charlie! Welcome to the forum and I'm lovin reading your post bringing another ti back to life! Nice job!
On your list, check the cooling system in general. There is a pesky <$10 "Y" cooling fitting on the back of the head that breaks on the M44 that typically leads to overheating and head gasket failure. PITA to replace, but doable and totally preventive maintenance if you choose to go that far, 3 of my 5 M44s have had a failure. (2 I purchased that had already failed which I repaired.) Basically, check the cooling system, that "Y" is a common culprit on bigger cooling failures and can be prevented.
Have someone run your VIN and you can see what options the car came with. I see the rear headrests and I wonder if the MTech spoiler was added or if was ordered like that from the factory.I guessing it may have the original suspension. If so, you may enjoy the ride and handling of renewed shocks/struts. Like for like will work just fine, unless you want to go sportier. The original suspension on a MTech are just fine for most folks for a daily driver.
BTW, you can swap your front calipers and carrier with an E36 Coupe or Sedan to use the front vented brakes. My 98 is caliper swapped like that.
Look forward to your progress! Again, welcome!
Rich
