I took delivery of my very first macbook pro today, 13" model and at a cost of £1399 I decided to take out applecare and just purchased it online. Saying that though, at these prices if this macbook pro don't stand the test of time I will not be buying another.
It will. My old Late 2009 Macbook is still kicking to this day and running Mavericks. I sold it to my buddy for 100USD and he's happy. I really didn't have to get a new one but I wanted something light and newer. As long as you take care of it it'll take care of you.