I can't speak to the early 80's.

I can speak to the 90's in international first class. The Dom was real. The escorts to the plane were real. Carved Chateaubriand at your seat was real - and caviar (although didn't care for it). Johnny Walker Blue - yep. It was truly an experience.

With that said - the seats aren't as good as today - or inflght entertainment - nor was the route network all that impressive in the 90's.

I wouldn't trade the old days for today.