A true observation, but I think that the high attitude approaches of the 70's and 80's era were simply a result of the hi-tech LE and TE devices which were bolted onto old technology wings, simply to get them to work efficiently.
Quite true, generally speaking.
The B727 is a perfecrt example of this technique.
An exception is the Lockheed TriStar.
A quite advanced wing design with very effective slats and slotted trailing edge flaps.
A well thought-out design, from the beginning.
Expecially so on the -500 model, with active ailerons.
We can then mention DLC on the 'ole TriStar.
Rock solid constant body angle on the ILS, regardless of weight.