I understand that things break. But my 98 d series had absolute no issues at all. No smoke, no knocking. Ran perfect.
Compared to the 2000 type r engine, which may I add is a far more expensive item, has had nothing but issues.
With proper maintenance and care, a machine will last a life time. Parts will give out over time, but the issue I have had is that the previous owners haven't cared to change them as they have broken. Just ignored it with the mentality of, it's not worth fixing, which is why we end up in this situation.
A 1970 Holden v8 built by Australia, has outlasted my japenese built 2000 4 cylinder. Which, by all means, should definitely be the other way around.