The cross section of this popular classic shows the working of the technique well. That is the beauty of a classic car. Because, what you can see with your own eyes, you can also understand, and where you can reach with your hands, you can dismantle and therefore also repair. This naturally includes the power of this relatively simple and fully mechanical technique. That of course can break down, but was designed to be repaired again. The current development in automotive technology is superior, but it is closed design. Designed not to easy open or disassemble, and is no longer easy to understand or repair. See here the appeal of a classic car . "You may open it, it's yours......"
Interesting story, happy that it ain't my car :-) !