The perspective prior to Dura Ace was Shimano targeted volume production bikes, less so for the purist racers and podium. High end French and Campy was it.
Before Shimano Dura Ace, racers seeked Suntour as it earned exceptional reputation on its top 1/3 product line. For those in the know, most reliable, light in weight and fast action shifts--- AND also on a tight budget. Incredibly low priced in comparison.
Suntour was often mixed with Campy but you would never see that with Shimano.
To me it seemed that Shimano finally wanted the hardcore racers with the arrival of Dura Ace, yet took awhile. I dig the early black anodized.