My 2 cents…

Have been using an Optra 1.6 for many years. It is a good car if properly take good care of it . Use good engine oil and ATF oil. Below is some info from my years of using Optra.

Mechanic: As the user "electron" said most decent mechanics will be able to service and maintain the Optra.

Air-cond compressor: stopped working after 5-6 years (~100K km).

Water hose: All need to change after 5-7 years (~120K km). Must use coolant.

Plastic radiator casing: Crack after 4-5 years.

Drive Shalf: Change ~ 5 years (depend on how many holds I hit).

FC: 8-9km/liter (heavy solid car)

Major service: Timing belt, Water pump, Fan belt, etcs.
(~100K km) Price ~RM1000-1300. If buy own parts, it will be cheaper.