Running costs - Aus vs imports

[Boosh Brus]

I am curious to know what the real running costs are on local and imported makes and models based on real life experience.

Most of the cars my family have had were/are euros and although some of the dealers can charge most of our cars are DIY or take it to a mechanic who wont void your warranty if applicable.

Personally, I have had more problems in my 14 year old ford then a 25 year old Volvo. Obviously previous owners, kilometers, enthusiastic driving etc all make a difference. Anyway that's the point of this thread. Are all euros expensive to maintain? Are they expensive but are more reliable so need less maintenance? Is it only certain marques that are expensive? How about Japanese cars?

Please share your experiences. Make of the car, year owned, problems etc. Lets keep them less the 20 years old at time of ownership.

Again I want to hear your experiences maybe your immediate relatives experiences. I don't want to know about your friend's brother's cat's mechanic's ex-boss's wife's cousin's Mercedes.

And keep the car sensible. Sure it might cost 30000 pound to service a Mclaren F1 but how many of them do you see cruising up the coast towing a boat?