The "engine failure" business seems to be caused by a lack of oil due to loss around the piston rings. If you learn your engine's oil usage, check it routinely, and keep it topped off, you will not have to worry about blowing the engine. Valvoline offers free top-offs between changes, you know...

I don't want to discourage you, but 120 miles a day is going to be hard to stomach in a VX. I would be burning about 8.5 gallons a day doing that in my VX, or at least $20 a day at current prices. Granted, I don't have the cheap Jersey gas you have, but still... figure on an average of about 15 mpg (most people here report between 12 and 18 mpg) and do the math for yourself.

The common basic mods you read about here (such as installing the rear door popper and re-routing your alarm antenna wire) will make daily use a little simpler.

Good luck in your search!