vh45de engine noise?

[q45t300zx]

Hello, I'm new to this forum and I'm hoping to get some help. I recently came across a 1999 q45t , the current owner says it has a rod knock. I went to listen to the noise and the engine made what I thought sounded like a lifter noise for 20 seconds or so them quit, sounded like it eventually pumped up. After allowing it to heat up, stut off the start back up the noise came back and didn't go away. It definitely sound like coming from the upper drivers side of the engine. It only has 102k miles on it. Has anyone seen or heard of the rods/bearings going bad this early? He wants $1500 for it and everything else is real clean. Is this a decent deal? I do all my own work so if it is a rod noise should I be even concerned about the condition of the crank? I dont know much about the VH motor so any input would be helpful.
Thanks

[q45t300zx]

Correction...vh41de

[born2shift]

I would not waste any of your money on an engine you need to open up. That puppy must have been abused if you have internal issues like a rod bearing. You make it sound like it is something in the head. I would not buy the car if you are unsure of the issues. Just doing the knock sensors and plenum hoses can get expensive enough without having to open up the head or bottom end.