Well i don`t know about you but I don`t classify cosmetic problems as serious problems with cars. it can be easily fixed. As long as the car never had engine ,gearbox ,cluch,electrical problems, many suspension problems in 10 years i think that is what you can call reliable car.
by the way my exhaust is still original with 135k miles a wee bit rusty in some places but no holes or any serious damage.