I managed to drive a Volare and two minivans 140k+ without expensive repairs. Of course the AC went at 90,000 and was not repaired, and they became pretty grumpy after 120,000. With the exception of the Volare, which rusted out immediately, I think the vans could have made it to 150,000 in good shape with a few thousand in repairs and more frequent oil changes. That would have averaged 2-3 cents a mile for repairs over the life of the car. Not bad, in my opinion.
My friend bought his '95 Maxima AT 75k miles and has had 2 things go wrong, a transmission replacement covered under warranty and an axle repair. I wish I could be so lucky, therefore my strategy has shifted to giving myself better odds. Toyota & Lexus for the next 2.