In article <32D1B04B.49E3@massey.ac.nz>, L.R.Lovell@massey.ac.nz says...

>I am just about to purchase a 35mm SLR, and want one that I can grow
>and develop my abilities with. There is a secondhand FM2 available
>locally. Judging by the many references to the above model this will
>suit my purpose, and serve me well for many years.
>
>However, many people suggest that a modern AF is more versatile. Can
>anyone let me know if the functionality of say a Canon Rebel XS does
>really outweigh the technical superiority of the FM2.

The FM is a good, solid basic camera, and you will learn more about
photography more quickly using it than you will with the auto-everything
cameras (even though you can go manual with them, the feel and approach
is different) - and you will have access to a very large supply of
excellent used Nikkor lenses that also hold their resale value very well.
Hope This Helps