I think the reason lacquer tended to look different was that was usually sanded and buffed to a very flat surface, which most guys don't achieve with urethane, but it also tended to have less gloss, as it would need constant attention and waxing to keep it fresh looking.

Also, the way paint pigments are made today, colors are richer and more vibrant.

Block out your primer before painting, use very basic color formulas from the 60s-70s, use a single stage catalyzed urethane with no clearcoat, block the paint flat when you finish spraying, and don't stay on the buffer long enough to achieve full gloss.