My brand-new Auto Ordnance M-1 Carbine was bought in October '07.
It was treated well, lubricated, kept clean, never dropped etc.
The bolt came a bit out of the track one day when reloading and it was jammed solid.
I was so dismayed at AO's design or quality control that I sold it after the nice free factory repair. The authentic Carbines' actions felt more solid. Not doing any research beforehand was my main regret. My Mini 30 is my M-1 Carbine, so to speak, and the 7.62x39 round is much more versatile with my SKS etc, and available. If we had another panic caused by a second major Al Qaida attack (even on electrical distribution networks) etc, ammo might become scarce, but the x39 round-especially the guns which use it-would be easier to find than .30 Carbine ammo.
If you decide on a US Carbine, you would probably find more value in a "GI" vintage Carbine from the CMP, if you get the paperwork and have the patience to wait for a while. You might also enjoy an SKS "Paratrooper".