Dear Mr Erik,
You have just misunderstood me and phrase
new & exciting. I am also die hard 8051 user and have not tried PIC or ST7.
But with new & exciting features I mean like no of A/D conver , Motor control Unit MCU with encoder feedback
etc. Is Motor control is not real world problem ? Micro with these features are used in speed control of AC,DC & Servo motors/Drives.
Though many 8051 variantes provide A/D & PWM but that in very cost version and many times incomplete. Like no 8051 variant (except Infen) produce 6 phase PWM with dead time generation.
PIC & ST micro with same features cost much less and are also easily available (and also reference design)
Full range of PIC micro are easily available in India easily (and since last 4-5 years) . Thay are ofering complete solution for say UPD, 4/6 digit counter.
Though a matured & experienced engg may not go for these design but person who have just started may be tempted to switch over.
I have mentione discussed inherent strength of 8051 family but with possible reason why some person are mentioning popul of PIC

Anil