I was starting to look around for a newer machine, when I ran across a video on YouTube about vintage Kenmore machines. It said the old metal mechanical machines would outlast anything made today. I'm using my mother's machine from about 1967 or 1968, model 185.950, with a Singer model 127 for backup.
Sad that the old Kenmores are no longer being made. I'm finding it very difficult to get parts or even presser feet that fit mine.