99 1.6 oil consumption

[Sanders630]

Usuall on rogue side for the wife's ride but, my brother picked up a 99 GXE for 300 dollars because of oil consumption. This is really the only problem with the vehicle. only 114xxx miles and interior is practically new. Want to help him make a lasting vehicle. anyway.. the situation

Pulled all of the plugs and all were grey on the tips. Looked to see if oil was leaking through the plug o rings and didn't see any oil in the chutes. Also, there is oil sprayed all over the driver side engine compartment that has built up over time. Can't see no visible leak but, there is black soot that builds up quick on the rear end from coming out the exhaust. I'm not familiar with this engine and it's problems. Any tips or suggestions on how to further diagnose are greatly appreciated.

Ryan