Digital thermostats rather than mercury tilt switches, also digital thermometers. Most people dont know how todic mercury is. If you break a mercury thermometer call 911 to request a hazmat team.
Autmobiles are far more efficient than they once were, also they have far cleaner engines. Even with smog certifications dirty cars become so worn out they can no longer be repaired.
One can still purchase a beater but it will have fuel injection and a computer.