All american brands cant beat japanese one in long term durability..! So hes right.. buying an american make car which has already done 1lac KMs is not a good idea.. Chevy ud give u great deal of dent in ur pocket when trying a full overhaul..!
Overall Optra is a much better car in class n luxuray than lancer or others..
But it has its own pros and cons..
My suggestion is buy the one u hav more technical info ebt + that has a good mechanic near ur home!
Keeping both cars mean u wud hav 2 go a lil outta way to get their things done! all is up2 u.. hw well ur know how is!