A couple of things have changed.
Cars are not built like they use to be. Instead of the full frame like a pickup you now have partial frame and unibody trying to improve mpg. These vehicles were not designed with towing in mind but the ole attitude of throw a hitch on it an go still exists.
While axle and tire ratings are pretty clear how a manufacture determines GVWR and GCWR seem a mystery. But as Hot Shots will tell you they know that they will have to buy transmissions and other components every so often because they will burn tem up. If a manufacture is going to warranty for 100,000 miles there will be some cushion in capability. The problem is we often want to use it then complain when something breaks.
Trailers are getting larger and heavier as well. Todays trailers have many features that never existed in the 50's and 60's.
Cost should not be an excuse for being unsafe.
With the amped up numbers on the F150/1500's these days and the anemic numbers of the F250/2500 why do they even build a 3/4 ton truck any more?
Common sense is dead. I read it's obituary. ;)
