How would you convince someone that a black or tan older machine is "better" than a new white one right out of a box that was made within the past year? And the more it cost, the better it should be???
Especially if the person did not have any history of sewing in his/her life?
One keeps hearing "You get what you pay for." So by using that 'logic' - a $12,000+ new machine should be MUCH better than a $25 dollar vintage machine.
And - depending on what you want it for - it may be.
But there are other times when a machine that performs one function perfectly is a better choice.