In article <19970718183601.OAA26804@ladder02.news.aol.com>, kastrein@aol.com says...

>I am looking for information and/or people's experiences with Nikkor 35mm
>f2.0 lenses. More specifically, I am presently using a Nikkor-O (#803XXX)
>which has been AI'd. I have had this lens for a number of years and have
>not been unhappy with its performance, basing my feelings on actual
>useage, not charts and tests. I have the ability to acquire a newer
>Nikkor AIS (#259XXX) of the same focal length and speed for approximately
>$200 (lens is in like new condition) . While I realize that any given
>lens from any given manufacturer can be a real gem or a major
>disappointment, I would like to know what, if any, optical design changes
>have ocurred between these two models. Some companies are always
>radically changing their optical designs on specific lenses, while other
>lenses rarely get modified throughout their existence. I am aware of the
>additional mechanical features offered in the AIS design, but these are
>not important to me because I use older Nikon bodies. I do plan to
>informally test the lenses, but I still thought I would see in anyone in
>this NG could provide some additional information. Also, as I am not
>considering Nikkor lenses in other focal lengths, or from other
>manufacturers, comments specific to this Nikkor focal length and speed are
>especially appreciated; the last thing I would like to see is a brand war
>or focal lenght battle over a very specific question. Thank you in
>advance for any information you can provide.

Hmmm, OK...;-)
The lens you have (Nikon's oldest still-current design), and the latest
AIS version are the same optical design but for multicoating... The AF
35mm f2 Nikkor is a different design. In my experience, the late 35mm f2 Nikkors actually do seem to be a bit better than the older ones (and I
don't generally believe in the advantages of multicoating...!;-), for
which I have no explanation... I also prefer the late MF version to the
AF version, but others report the reverse preference... My 35mm f2 AIS
Nikkor has almost replaced my f1.4 version for most of my work (lighter,
smaller, somewhat more pleasant to focus, and a bit better over most of
the frame at wide stops - though corner illumination roll-off at f2 is
more evident than with the f1.4). If you are happy with your current
lens, why change?
Hope This Helps
(David Ruether - http://www.fcinet.com/ruether )