I have 2 Vikings, one that I have had for 25 years, and have never had a single problem with, and it has always sewn beautifully. I sew ALOT- I used to make all mine and my daughter's clothing, and I sewed clothing for other people, too, plus made drapes, bedspreads, etc. - all before I started quilting. About 1 1/2 years ago, I bought a '74 model Viking, NO COMPUTER ON IT!! I paid $125 for the machine and it cost another $200 to have it cleaned, oiled, and a part replaced. It was the best money I ever spent. I cannot say enough good things about the older machine. It sews like a dream, is especially good at handling those intersections where there are multiple layers of fabric and batting- it never even slows down. It uses little pop-in cams for different stitches. It doesn't stop with the needle up, and that took some getting used to, but I wouldn't trade it for anything.