However, if you live close to the repeater you frequently operate it would probably be a great little radio.
A better handheld antenna would probably help this little guy a lot.
I have read that the UV-5 is a big improvement over the UV-3. Probably that "More Stubborn case"

I live 6 miles from the local repeater. I am on a hilltop and so is the repeater. I am at 820 ft ASL and the repeater is about 1000 ft ASL. We got eyeball contact so to speak. With Jap HT's I always used the lowest power available for "Full Quieting". However I use a HT mostly for listening and travel, with just occasional ragchews.
I have options to replace the Rubber Duckie.
At $45 delivered I can't see much risk.
FWIW, Amazon still is selling several different models of the UV-3 for around $35....
At these prices even a cheap ham could afford to upgrade to a new model every year or so.

Stan K9IUQ