Bernina's tend to be very finicky and designed to be used with their own feet and such. I think for that era of machine, the lever is a pretty reasonable way of doing things...
For a modern machine, the stuff they can do these days is amazing! Maybe a medium-end (so over $100, under 2k) Brother might give you some options?
Something like this Eversewn is pretty awesome for garment construction in addition to quilting needs,
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Eversewn-...hine/873427600