An exception to my overall experience is my 2003 VW whose original battery is 13 years old and still going as we are entering spring here. This winter it was starting the engine at zero degrees. I believe the difference may be that I drive it at least every 2 or 3 days around the city on errands for an hour so. I also keep the engine tuned and it starts at the first rotation.
Regarding so-called non-new batteries, friend at local Advanced Auto store took me in parts room and showed me a line-up of new-looking 3 year batteries. He said that because they didn't sell within 18 months on display (and trickle charger), they have to sell them at $50 or less with no core charge or $5 state recycling fee, and they still honor the specified 100% replacement warranty from date of purchase. Not a bad deal on the cheap.