I think car styling took a nosedive in the 1970s and has never recovered. I always prefer older shapes to modern styling. What do others think? Am I nuts or am I right?

Examples:
Old School




New School

Maybe as the years have passed, my memory of the life of a car has changed however it was not uncommon to have a car that lived well into its 300 000+kms, before any major mechanical issues arose. In those days cars rusted out before they wore out.

Before buying this vehicle I did my research and spent a fair bit of money. Currently my newish car which now has 120 000kms has and has had issues I wouldn't expect. I dont thrash my car and service it as expected however the issues that are occuring I am being told are "common" with this car.

Having had a gutfull of this "built to last" vehicle I am sad to take the necessary actions and to sell it. The car - current model Hilux Dual Cab Diesel 4WD. Bought it as it suited my lifestyle with the tray at back and the 4WD. Could be a Friday built vehicle, however when chatting to a number of mechanics the issues seem to extremely common with this extremely common and overpriced vehicle with very expensive parts. While at the mechanic he said he just repaired his as the injectors were stuffed and his had only done 60 000km's. While there another person rang him to ask about his issues with the vehicle.

I was seriously hoping to have this vehicle for a long time, till it was seriously outdated. Even Jeremy and James rated this vehicle seriously tough. What a load of **. May be tough and reliable for the first 80 000km's then the issues arise.

Anyway, is this fairly standard for most vehicles out there or are there any truly decent vehicles that are built to last out there? If so keen to get other peoples views and experiences of their vehicles so I know what to keep away from and what to look for.