More Technology = Less Tolerance
Less tolerance is leading to better products. The low tolerances of today were beyond measurement 50 years ago. Tighter fits create more efficiency. Parts last longer. Longer lasting parts create longer lasting trucks. More efficient parts create a more efficient truck. Gears that once took a full day to cut, now take less than 10 minutes. The gears fit together better now than ever.
These tighter tolerances go beyond fit. Raw materials must meet expectations. These materials can be closely examined during the cutting process. Tight specifications are measurable in ways that were science fiction not that long ago. Lasers were the domain of the imagination. Now raw materials can be laser tested to insure 
quality. Every piece can be tested for material defects. Every cut can be measured. Better materials make better trucks.
Consistency is the norm. We remember the old idea “Don't buy a car that was built on a Friday.”. That is not true anymore. Quality control has improved. Less tolerance has been made possible by better technology. People will try to convince you “These new trucks are breaking down more than the old ones.”. Not really, I remember back 25 years ago, nobody wanted the brand new trucks. You needed 100,000 miles to work the bugs out. The first day I had mine, it threw a code. We knew exactly what it was and we fixed it. Since then, it has thrown 2 codes. One was a sensor, that could be checked at a regular service interval. One was for below normal operating temperature for my DEF. Virtual technician emailed me to tell me what was needed - nothing.
Back in the 80s, I was thrilled to move up to a 350 HP engine. It was a big leap from my 300 HP. The DD15 
in my new truck has 475HP. It isn't just trucks. The 50th anniversary Mustang was at the Detroit Auto Show. The classic 65 was also on display. They are both beauties. I would be proud to have either one in my garage. The 289 V8 in that 1965 kicked out 200HP. The V8 in the new one produces 420HP. The 6 cylinder in the new one is going to be rated at 305HP.
Technology is continually improving. Trucks and cars are easier to drive. They are safer. The seat in my Cascadia Evolution is heated and cooled. My Buick has a heated steering wheel. Nostalgia is great. I loved my 1972 Mustang. If you give me a choice, I'll take the new one. That goes for cars and trucks.