There is NO car that has EVER been built that doesn't require some money put into it from time to time. How many new car payments can you make for $1500?

If you are changing oil frequently and taking care of the car, there is no reason that it will only last 100,000 miles after the head work. These engines have incredibly well built bottom ends. When I pulled the head off mine at 170 something thousand miles, there was still crosshatch everywhere in all cylinders. The engine now has 278,000 miles and is in great shape, using no oil and running like a champ.

Just use a good oil and change it often and the engine will stay under you for a LONG time. That said, you have to prepared for the little things on these cars. Things like blower motors, water pumps, belt tensioners, etc., etc. are what test my patience. I can do all this work myself, so the expense is not near as great. If you are not a DIYer, this will be a relatively expensive car to keep on the road, BUT not that much more expensive than other cars while being a MUCH GREATER car to drive than other cars.

Good luck,