[racer]

Spend enough money and it will last a lifetime. How much do you want to spend? usually folks get tired of spending money on the same car and simply buy a newer one that statistically is likely to need fewer repairs (but not ZERO repairs).

Theres a fellow on RL with over 230,000 miles on his Boxster. I bet he has a healthy folder of receipts and repairs.

The engine is potentially the weakest link, but you will have other items (shocks, brakes, clutch, waterpump, belts, powersteering components, electrical etc) to consider as well.

So, not really sure if you are looking for a sense of life in TIME vs Miles vs Your wallet and desire to keep (any) car running.