Erm not sure, I have had both front and top loaders and honestly prefer front loaders. Seems to last longer and as mentioned above saves water and electricity, although I cannot ascertain by how much... Depends on usage. *shrugs*

Make sure crap doesn't clog up the machine and have someone look at it for maintanence every couple of years and I reckon a washing machine can last for a decade or two If so susah, wash by hand Then no electricity costs at all. If electricity tariffs rise sum more may have to consider that... ;