The mazak I have is a 1986 with a M2 control.... its a coolant leaking, slow, quirky machine that runs mazatrol ( has EIA but not much memory). I know the newer mazaks are much different, but still I'd have to be impressed by everything to buy one. But I would be that way about any machine over the $200k threshhold.
!!!! '86 with an M2 control.... M2 control isn't even a dinosaur, it's older than dinosaurs. If that's the basepoint to gage up on... then boy, have we got something to show you.
Toyoda has greatly expanded their factory service guys in many regions over the last few years. I know we're giving them a shot. We just bought (3) FH1250SX horizontals with a 14 pallet FMS. We'll see how it goes.
Kits are tough machines and can definately hold their own. Makino is top notch and even though the local representation now sucks, the reliability on them is high so down time has been of little concern. Plus, they're easy to fix anyway and there are many private mechanics who have no problem working on them. The control IMO (which are Pro5 now) has never been a problem for working on. I've had Makino on it, locals on it, and neither GE FANUC or FANUC America techs have had issues working with the Pro control overlay. Both FANUCs can install options and software upgrades, hardware problems, etc. Once in awhile you get into a "Oh, thats FANUC" or "Oh, thats Makino" but very seldom.
Matsuura has nice stuff and Niigata used to be HMC king for awhile. But being that they've been bought and sold a few times plus, nearly going bankrupt a couple times in recent history, their corporate structure, which can affect service and application, might leave little to be desired. SNK has stepped in on this but the coastal regions aren't covered very well.
Hitachi I'd just assume no longer deal with them. If you have one, dump it. I'll be canning my Hi-cells soon (hopefully). Although there is a guy on the east coast somewhere that bought a boat load of Hitachi parts to continue parts and service on them. But once he runs out, might be real tough getting back on line.
Mori is very proud of their equipment, hence the commonly higher price over others. But they for sure make a solid machine. Leadwell... hmmm. For me, I'd take one Mats over two Leadwells anyday.... but then again, I don't know all of your details.