I'm an original owner of the '97 and now have 256,000 Km. Never had any engine / transmision repairs. Normal maintenace work (brakes/calipers, and some suspension work @ 180,000K, & waterpump @ 240,000 K. The core heater now is not working and Rad is about to wear out. Will probably reapr son.
Very happy with this car, probaby best car I have ever owned. In case you didn't kow the engine is a Nissan and many parts are also.