There is a lot of potential in solving mechanical problems with information systems, rather than using complicated mechanical solutions. For instance, hydraulic automatic transmissions and differential.
The mechanical solutions are always really interesting and clever, but digital systems are much more flexible.
Really cool video on the mechanical ignition timing control in a delorean to control emissions. Explanation of ignition advance at the end: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ge1GwepqtK0
