[bcj]

Keeping it stock, you wouldn't need a computer. A bluetooth OBDMII reader and Torque would do to see what's happening if you want to.

Not tail happy unless you kick it on purpose. Having some restraint, it doesn't do it by itself.

Don't think there are special tools involved until you get deep into the internals. Most stuff is basic sockets and wrenches. If you have a shop, shouldn't be hard.

Tires tires tires for the conditions. Get spare wheels and snow tires for the winter.
Over in Seattle, it's even more mild. I don't have snows, but I'm retired and I just don't go out.
When I had to be somewhere every day, I still had snow tires anyway.