I think the younger group was pushed into the import cars because it's easier to get a car payment and modify a running car vs buying an old car. The old cars in their price range would be rough and need serious help. Add in the fact that a lot of those guys likely had limited tools and knowledge and it was easier to buy something new. How many older guys would even give a younger guy parts or advice with an old car project? Not many I know of.

Girls that age are going to hang around with the guy who has a nice paint job and stereo vs the kid with a primered old car, no ac, scruffy interior, etc.