I miss doing this - Datsun 240Z (distributor cap, rotor and points). No A/C and other devices in the way of the engine compartment to make it more difficult. These days they even have a plastic cover over the engine that you have to remove. I think auto manufacturers do it on purpose to discourage backyard mechanics. They want everyone to spend money at the dealership.
I'm thankful to own the humble 1999 Civic with only 124,000 miles on it. I'm not looking forward to a newer car I'm sure I won't be able to do very much work on it.
