I suppose it illustartes that 1990 models were significantly superior in quality than the 1980 or 1970 and similarily that there is little difference in quality between a 1970 and 1980.
That is pretty interesting. The chart does show a significant increase in the useful lifespan of newer cars. 40% of 19 year old 1990 cars on the road compared to less that 20% of 19 year old '70 and '80 cars on the road.
Wonder if anyone has done a comparison chart of Japanese vs North American vs European.
With the higher survival rate then the turnover can't be as great. Thus fewer new car sales. Ever wonder where all those gov't crusher incentives come from. Data like this and lobbying by the manufacturers.