Old cars like the Riley rotted for fun. Not only that but you had to plan on a decoke at 30k miles and an engine rebuild at 60k even as recently ( to me!!) as the 60s. Modern cars will do several 100k miles before major engine work and the bodies are much better protected. So the difference in terms of longevity is between the greasy handed mechanic who can patch up the Riley, and the computer technician who can patch up the modern equivalent.
One issue is spare parts. And its not just major bits like engines - the bits I cant get for my toy car ( built 2003) are things like door handles, lenses for lights.
Anyway, it doesnt really matter does it? Can you see a modern 3 door hatch as anything other than a disposeable domestic appliance - list price to scrap value in 20 years?
Last edited by howard; 18/07/24 07:29 AM.
