Yes, I do think that the decals on the 48K are the most beautiful of all, but perhaps that's because you don't see them too often.
I learned to sew on my great grandmother's Singer 66K so I have a real soft spot for those, but unfortunately I don't have the space for sewing machines that aren't functional (or at least potentially so) and useful and I found that tackling a big project without reverse, graduated stitch length, and tension was a pain. But then I found a 201K and it was everything I'd dreamed of. All the positives of the 66, essential (for me) extra features and oh so smooth.
I probably do most of my sewing (I use darning and stretch stitches a lot) on a 1995 Bernina 1015 SE (AKA 1011). It doesn't have the vintage charm, but it just works. Never any drama with it. I've sewn just about everything (including plastic) on it and it's never once complained or even hesitated. It was a lucky find on eBay with a Buy It Now price of a fraction of what they usually go for. If I ever have to replace it, I'll happily pay the going rate. For me, it'd be worth every penny.
Unfortunately, I can't warm to this Kenmore at all. I can't put my finger on it, but I'm just not feeling the love. But I do appreciate its strengths so I think it'll be my go-to machine when making curtains or some project with plenty of long, straight stretches. I tried putting in a zipper with it last night and I was pulling my hair out, dealing with the clumsy adjustable zipper foot.