Well IDK about being better or worse but newer forklifts lasting longer is an absolute BUT when I started in this business in the 1970.s we had 95% manufacturers as customers and the machines were really abused. Fast forward to 2014 and 75% are warehousing and truck docks mostly Ideal conditions so who knows? It is also interesting to note back then to now in 1979 I'd say 5% of the machines serviced were electric now a days closer to 60%.
After all is said and done though I still have several C500's and even a couple old 462 towmotors and an AC or two hanging around and getting use daily. You young guys let me know in a few years if you still have any FG Komatsu's around in 2030. :)