For emissions, if it has the sticker under the hood stating it meets the U.S. Federal emissions standards then you should be OK.
As for the title, it will depend on his will/living trust. Usually the executor of the will/living trust has the authority to sell the possessions unless it specifically states the possession is to be given to a specific heir. The proceeds from the sale are then used to pay any outstanding debts and then the balance is distributed accordingly between any applicable heirs. The executor will have the authority to sign off on the title. If they cannot or will not provide you with the signed off title, then walk away (or you could get in the middle of a family feud).
