I believe the yrs of mtb experience is more important then anything else. If you have been riding aggressively for 20 yrs your skills and confidence level will be your greatest asset.
Bikes have gotten better, better tires, wheels, geometry, suspension, brakes, dropper post...these are all great improvements, however the learning curve for a beginner is still a learning curve.
Fitness, balance and being comfortable on a bike take years. We all like to think that spending $8,000 on a bike will make us awesome. I do admit to feeling awesome on my Tallboy when riding up north at Ringwood, Mooch, Wawayanda however riding a rigid SS at Hartshorne and Allaire is really fun too. Awesome in Awesome out.