We replaced our 1990's purchased "old-fashioned" washer and dryer last year (since repair people were now wanting to replace motors and things that basically would cost more than half the cost of new machines).
After researching and reading all the horror stories about the front-loader washers, we purchased ('old-fashioned") GE Profile machines and have not had any issues with them. Admitedly they are less than a year old.
Even though they are the original style (top-load washer and front-load dryer), they clean and dry our clothes and everything much better than the Amana's we had. These GE's are also hugely quieter than the originals.
Ultimately, I'm very satisfied and recommend that you do research before purchasing any particular model for front-loads or any other type.
I don't expect the newer machines to last 16 years like our older machines, but I may be getting a bit cynical from all the negatives I read about washers/dryers.
