It's also possible that cars have gotten better over time, and people are fine driving old ones. I drive a 15-year-old car. Yeah, a new car would be nice, but this one works just fine, and hasn't caused me any problems.

But when I think back to 2001, I don't think cars from 1986 would be the same way.

This is not data, of course, as it's completely anecdotal. But based on my own experience, I'd be curious if people really are holding onto cars longer, or buying more used cars.