I have never owned a Jap car so I can't say how reliable they are. People own European cars, ie volvos, audis, BMWs and Mercedes because they offer more than just transportation. There is no question they are more expensive to maintain than a Honda. For the most part they are extremely reliable, although parts will be more expensive than for a Geo Metro.

My family has owned several Volvos which have performed great!. The first wagon was a 240 Wagon which was involved in a serious accident. We hydroplaned and went End over End 6 times. We all lived!!(Bare;u) Another reason to buy a volvo.

Our other 240 we kept for 350,000 miles and then sold it. (still running strong with no body rust)

I now have a 1995 Volvo 850 Wagon with 94K on it. Other than routine oil changes, spark plug changes, stuts, brakes and a timing belt which I all consider routine maintainence the car has been Awesome.

I also have a 1999 which consumer reports say to avoid. I know have 60K on that and have done nothing other than change oil and a light bulb or two.

So, BUY one if you are looking for a Solid, Safe reliable car that isn't like all the other cookie cutter cars on the road today.

Good luck.