I think there is some validity in saying that ALL modern cars are becoming more 'throw away' than cars from the past. While newer cars are built better in many ways, the quest to reduce weight and increase fuel economy is taking its toll. I don't think modern transmissions are near as sturdy as ones from thirty years ago. Back in the 60's, you couldn't tear up a Borg Warner 4-speed or a GM Turbohydramatic 400 tranny. The old engines were cast iron, and if you overheated them, it oftentimes didn't do any damage.
Old cars used to be kept running with baling wire and duct tape. Nowadays, if the computer craps out, you have to shell out $1000 or else junk the car. I think the complexity of electronic fuel injection systems will cause many owners of older cars to junk them, rather than pay to have them repaired.
When you look around your house, virtually everything today is meant to be thrown away rather than fixed. When was the last time you fixed a TV, VCR, or refrigerator? Cars seem to be following the same trend.
