I rebuilt the engine in mine with a brand new wire rung 200 block, group a spec head, bd10 & 12 cams , low comp pocketed pistons, high flow oil pump,balanced bottom end , competition bearings , grey injectors,T35 hybrid turbo, group a coil ,3 bar map sensor etc etc 19 years ago when the mileage was on 43,000. It is now on 105,000 miles. I ran it like this for the 19 years with no problems but did add 2 years ago wasted spark ignition, new engine wiring loom including fans and 044 pump relays, l8 ecu with 4x4 tps and custom chip, hart style inlet,Siemens 83lb injectors,T38 turbo with billet compressor wheel, lightened flywheel with new Helix 6 paddle clutch plus hydraulic conversion.It did need the gearbox rebuilding but after 19 hard years of abuse.It has had a new alternator,starter motor, steering coupling and a couple of batteries
That is the only things that have needed replacing in 21 years which I dont think is to bad.All the other things I have done to get more power plus big brake conversion, different suspension and wheels etc have been upgrades which of course are not essential.
My car has always been used hard but mechanically has never let me down.I am sure if he buys a 2wd or 4x4 Sapphire with only a slight power upgrade it will be as reliable as most other cars.
The trouble is a standard one was never going to be for me but that has been my choice and yes it has been costly but I have never regretted it.