I replaced my washing machine and dryer a year or two ago. I was pretty skeptical that a new set would make any difference, so I held off until it broke.

The new machines are better. I'm not an expert, but I think the biggest differences are: sensors to stop adding water when it isn't necessary, a really powerful spinner in the washer that dries the clothes better, powerful spinner in the dryer. Btw, my washing machine is top load, fwiw.

Oh, and to answer a different question: why didn't we have this stuff years ago? I think, no one cared enough to do it.