I am looking at a 97 CL and during the test drive, the trans tended to be a little loud. It shifted OK, but was loud. I know they tend to transfer road noise, but it did seem louder than normal. I am looking to get this for around $1,600.

Does this sound like the tranny might need replacing?

the CL's have had some problems with tranny's. You'll probibly end up putting in a new reman tranny in it. But at that price, if the car is really clean it might be worth starting at 00k miles. Good luck!