I have a '96 E/XC. They won't jet clean until you change the pipe and silencer, then they run great. (FMF Fatty / Turbine Core combo on mine.)
Light weight, good handling, very fuel efficient for an open bike. Power is like an XR600 on steroids. Comes right off the bottom like a thumper, good strong mid, and explodes on top.
The weak link is the front forks. If they're not booted, they'll leak, and they bottom easily. (Some day I'll have them done!)
Overall, good quality parts. A very reliable bike. It'll do just about anything you want except sky jumps. Leave that to the pure MXers'.:D