My first car is a Mustang. Before I bought the car, I heard almost all the arguments above. After 12k miles, the rear break joint has to be replaced. After 24k miles, the transmission went. Then there are leaks and recalls. The car is in the shop every other month, after 2 years. And the worst part, is that all the other 3 year old Mustang are in the shop next to mine, waiting to be repaired.
Finally one day I complainted to the Ford mechanics. He said, "I drive a Honda and you should too". I sold the car after 3 years for about 40% of the purchase price.
Now the Lexus I bought second hand is on its 16th year, and it's running strong. I will never touch a Ford again.