Should I buy and fix this Honda Civic?

I was offered by a very trusted mechanic who's a friend a 1999 Honda Civic with 176,000 miles on it. The car runs and drives but needs new lines running brake fluid to the rear brakes. New front Brakes, oil change, a new front plastic bumper (metals fine), and inspection. It also needs cleaning on the inside. The car is for sale for $500 and the fix will be $850. The mechanic is confident that after the works put in, ill have a good car for 1,350. This would be my first car. I have a couple other options to, one being a 96 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme. Its ready to go with 136,000 mles for $2200. The Hondas privately owned, and the olds is a dealership.

I'd go with the Honda. Considering the price quote to fix it it's still cheaper than the olds and plus when it is fixed it's going to last a while

The Honda is a worthwhile bet if another Civic in better condition can't be found.

Since you trust the judgment of the mechanic, the Honda should be the better of the two vehicles after repairs.