Need help about whether or not to purchase a 1999 75hp yamaha

[nobleprime]

Hello all,
I located a 1999 75hp yamaha for sale and I wanted to get some opinions on the engine. The guy wants $1500 for it with controls and says that the thing runs perfectly (he is selling it because the boat has a soft spot). Should I jump on it or should I pass? It would be going on a 21' starcraft aluminum center console.

If it is a good deal, what things should I be on the look out for in terms of seeing if the engine is still good. I plan on doing a compression test, checking the lower unit oil, letting it idle for a while until warm, and testing the power t/t a few times, but other than that I am lost. Is there any way to test if the engine shifts correctly and runs smoothly without putting it in the water?

Also, one other thing is that the engine I have on my boat is a 1981 90hp evinrude and I was wondering if the transom holes are going to line up. I know that you can just fill the old ones and drill new ones but I would rather not.

Thanks alot for the help and I'm sorry for the long post