Originally Posted by
Doohickie
The older stuff is actually better, if durability is important to you. Look at how often people have to change out drivetrain components on newer bikes. Some of the reason for that is because in order to make 10 speeds on the back cog work, everything has to be a little thinner. Less material = less durable. The older stuff isn't as light but it lasts longer.
More complex is less durable, too. For example, STI levers compared to simple brake levers and downtube shifters (even ratcheting). And for durability and performance, 40 year-old Campagnolo Record hubs, headsets, pedals, and bottom brackets (loose balls) are pretty awesome.