I'm a hobbyist, not an expert, but my impression is that many modern lens designs are heavily based on classic designs, with more corrective elements (often at

I'm a hobbyist, not an expert, but my impression is that many modern lens designs are heavily based on classic designs, with more corrective elements (often at least 10 total vs ~6 in many classic designs), as well as increased use of special elements (e.g. aspherical) and proprietary coatings which improve optical properties. For example, Sony describes their modern 50mm 1.4 as a ”refined double-Gauss design incorporating two aspherical elements, including one precision AA (advanced aspherical) element, works with an ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass element to suppress field curvature and distortion". The basic double-gauss design has been around since the 19th century!