Just to add to the reliability discussion, here's my experience
18,000 miles covered (from 60,000 to 78,000) over three and a half years
The car has needed:
Fuel pump (Failed, £200 fitted)
Power Steering cooler (Had a leak, £65 fitted)
I'd say that's not too shabby!
Oh and I reckon about £3,500 in petrol, haha
