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It’s definitely by design. I am currently looking for a pre-2010 vehicle. My 2006 Honda Element was 16 years old had above 200k miles before I parted with it
Mine is a 1973 Chevrolet Nova with the 250 inline 6, and 3 speed stick. The only rust was the battery tray which I replaced, still original engine, transmission, paint and upholstery. It doesn't get much simpler. Once they started with fuel injection, and 1,000 to 3,000 semiconductor chips "simple" went away. That was back in the 1980s.
Exactly!!!
Once Washington DC started demanding all the "crash worthiness construction" and "anti-pollution" measures, followed by the "CAFE fuel mileage" constraints , simplicity went out the window....
A mechanic friend said Honda stopped making the Fit model because they performed too well and never had issues. Not sure about that, as I know nothing about cars.
Bring back the OBS fords. The technology was surprisingly advanced at the time, the longevity is well, you still see them on the road in large numbers, and they are stunningly simple to work on, not a single part requires great skill to replace.
I think my 1987 Mazda was a real good balance of technology and simplicity.
It had full computer control of the engine fuel air and ignition, so it got 33+ MPG in general driving, but there were almost no gewgaws. Standard transmission, roll up windows, AM/FM radio. No cruise control (I regretted this choice later). AC, yes, but simple AC controlled by sliders and rotary switches, not by a zillion solenoids moving dampers inside. I would have been happy without the power steering and brakes (it was a light car) but they came with it. Of course, in those days there was no "infotainment" nonsense. Navigation was by PGS (Paper Geographic System). If you wanted to make a phone call, you stopped at a gas station and used the pay phone.
I note the OP refers to "vehicles", not just "automobiles", so I'll propose the standard steel frame bicycle, still manufactured in vast numbers today. Jury's out whether the internally-geared rear hub or derailleur gears is the better choice for regular utility use.
Simple? New?
Not ever again I am afraid. My 90 GMC still works well, as does the '08 Honda. But nether of those are actually simple enough for me.
I would prefer a Checker small block V8 from the 60s.
A new 4Runner still uses technology from two decades ago. Naturally aspirated engine, 5 speed transmission, keyed ignition. I imagine it'll last forever but it'll slowly bleed you dry with its dismal fuel economy.
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