I just keep all my cars going regardless.
Take my DCI for example. Owned by someone who didn't know anything about cars but thought it needed for nothing. Body work absolutely immaculate and it was a bargain at £1200. However it needed, all new ARB bushes, front discs and pads, wipers, track rod ends, cambelt, rear spring, new steering gaiter, new alternator pulley, new aux belt, massive service, tweeters replacing, oil pressure switch, boost leak fixing and a new number plate light. For £1500 I've got a car which is a million time better and will last far longer than a clio for sale at £1500
Save it. Parts are cheap
Same with my DCi. Got it for £1100 in August. Years MOT, full Renault history, lady owner etc. I'm up to about £800 spent getting to how I want it. Cambelt, waterpump, tyres etc. Like you, I expect to see in excess of 250k from this car so it will be maintained regardless :approve: