I just bought a 222 free-arm featherweight after doing alot of research. I am just starting to learn quilting after a 25 year hiatus from sewing because of my career.
I can't speak to other brands, I grew up and still have a Singer 201, birthday 1946. Sewing machines just aren't made like they used to be, when it comes to quality and machining. I did not buy it for zig-zag, nor software programs, nor embroidery. I bought it because it is such a work horse, 'It take's a lickn' but keeps on ticking as TimeEx used to say.
Get yourself a copy of Nancy Johnson-Srebro 3rd edition of Featherweight 221 ( and 222), The Perfect Portable and Its Stitches Across History. Happy Hunting, try Singer Original Vintage Products website. Libber