Maybe an experienced Bodyman can correct me, but, a certain bit of orange peel is needed for paint durability.

For the environmental hoops they have to jump through, and the learning curve of being forced to use water-based paint, I think the manufactures are doing exceptionally well.

My '01 Ram is all original and there are spots under the lower body lines where the coverage is noticeably thin. My '07 Ram is also all original and has way better coverage. The '07 should be around the switch to water-based and it does have more orange peel than the '01.

Looking at new Chargers, Rams, Jeeps and Fords, I notice the paint quality is exceptionally smooth. Almost to the point where it looks like the quality is getting closer to wet sanded and polished show cars. The colors are richer and more vibrant too. Overall, I'm impressed with what is going on with today's colors and paint finish.