Interestingly, this same discussion crops up every once in awhile on the
BMW 2002 group site. Although the number of cars decreases each year
and the average age probably increases, there is a pretty core group
that continues make parts available and sharing knowledge with the
younger crowd. I see a great deal of similarity between the two. I
think machines that defined a market will always be around in some
capacity or another. Model T's are still around and running. I think
the enthusiasm shown by many on c.s.a2 certainly points to a bright
future - especially with all the new projects being discussed. I can't
even keep up!
I think there's a large subset within the group of people who "grew
up" with the Apple II, and a few senior members who were "grown up"
when the Apple II was new. But I suspect those of us in the 30-45 age
group will continue to keep the the average age climbing *almost*
linearly. Alas in 30-40 years, it'll start to drop dramatically :-)
For me at least (I'm 33 this year) the Apple II has been a life-long
love affair. I suspect it'll last a lifetime too. There will no doubt
be plenty in the younger brigade to carry on the torch, just as there
are those playing with carburettors today who were born long after
fuel injection was the norm :-)