Heh. Just picked up a '92 Stumpjumper on eBay. As a noncompetitive rider, for about a $250 entry price, including shipping, for a bike that is straight and has no major cosmetic or mechanical issues, I think I did OK. All bikes in my stable are old, and I have fun riding all of them.

A former competitive runner now disabled by the flu shot received in 2017, I'm not worried about speed or performance, tho' I could have given literally over 99% of the world hell in a foot race a few years ago in my mid forties... I'm more stable on the bike these days than on my own two feet thanks to Big Pharma and the military's drive to vaccinate all of us with toxic crap. The Stumpjumper is a bike for fun and also work on the farm (in conjunction with a trailer for hauling/moving stuff.) Can't run anymore, so this is how I stay in shape these days.

Bigger wheels definitely have an advantage but I hope they'll continue to support the 26" market with good tires, wheels, etc. for years to come. The fun and utility factor for the 26ers is still there.