No, they were not. I'm not saying there hasn't been disposable film in the past. I'm saying it wasn't the predominant business model that it is now.

I do think a little more thought went into the Bond films than the insta-blockbusters of today. Cheese? - often times. Filler until the next action\CGI scene? - not at all. Story was still being considered. That said; Execution & staying power are a matter of opinion. Of course, so are my views on the CGI-fests of today. For every modern film I see as disposable, there is probably an online user community with a forum to discuss it's greatness.

I don't think your example of Saturday Night Fever fits the film industry model of today. Yes - it was capitalizing on the Disco trend of the late 70s - but there was depth & story there that wouldn't be bothered with today.