is the engine noise tapping or knocking from cold? tapping could just be followers but they must be quite knackered to last for a minute, expect to cost around £200 to fix ( followers, gaskets, half moons)
check for bad oil leaks, smoke when on full throttle and over-run, should pull smoothly regardless of spec.
check tyres for uneven wear , suspension parts can be expensive.
loads more but can't think