Well school did have running water and heat but there were issues there as well. All-in-all I think I appreciate things like indoor plumbing and centralized heat far more than people who grew up with it.

Back to my original question, I was thinking that the cold (while not wonderful on my arse) might contribute to the degradation of the original vinyl seats. They were perfect when I got the car, but I already see some wear damage on the shoulders after just two winters in my ownership...