I have a nice 272xp, it does the job but the 371/372xp original i prefer better. The newer saws seem to rev faster and that is great for limbing. I also like the automotive style air filter better.
Also agree the 026 to 261 is light years better in most regards
I am still trying to get excited about a saw better than the original 044 that was like 12.8lbs and revved quick and still had good torque too, only thing it could use is better AV. Maybe i'll go test drive a 462 and get excited, wish it wasn't so much money.
If you're just bucking for firewood the old ones still do the job, shoot i still love getting the old 041 farmboss out once in a while, might even choose it over the 290 farmboss.