I would also say that Lionel today is also making some high quality products. Yes, there are electronic issues but the basic mechanical parts are well built. We are back to all metal gears, Pittman motors, etc. The new ZW-L is a work of art and one heck of a beast.
As for Post War and even PreWar stuff, its pretty much bullet proof. Unless you wear out the gears and axles, these will outlast all of us. I have my dad's original Lionel freight set from 1938 and his first American Flyer O gauge outfit. Both still run like a swiss watch and see yearly service during the holidays.
