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I was checking out a 2001 Corolla at the auction. I noticed that when the engine was revved some water came out of the exhaust pipe. It was not just a few drops, maybe about 20-30 mls each time we revved it.. The water had black in it but this looked more like soot from the pipe rather than oil. The engine was not warmed up at all as you don't get the chance to drive it for long enough there. Is this something to worry about, or was it just because the engine was cold and maybe the automatic choke was still on?

It is normal to see condensation (water and carbon from the exhaust) coming from the exhaust tailpipe in the mornings when the engine is cold. When it warms up it should clear. If you see steam coming from the exhaust when the engine is warmed up then you should be concerned.

If you suspect something is wrong with the engine you should rather walk away from the car or have a pre-purchase inspection carried out with a TK cylinder head gasket test.