I have to agree with all of you..... older is better. I'm older now, and I'm definately better!! I have a fancy Viking (it was a hand-me-down from a friend getting a newer, fancier one), but I'm finding a few older ones that I love as well. I don't have a lot but the ones I've gotten I've fallen in love with. I've been a little selective because I'm just afraid I won't be able to fix some of the ones I see but I'm acquiring a few... and I'm learning. Next week is my birthday and I've set up an appointment to check out a couple that will probably come home with me..... a 99K and a 101. I hope they are what the seller says they are..... I'll let you all know. I think it's a crime that people don't know how to do much these days..... sewing, changing a flat, replacing a heating element in the oven. Everyone thinks you have to hire someone to do everything.... it's no wonder we are in the economic condition we're in!