This is a comparison between the new Nikon 70-200mm VR II and Nikons 70-200mm VR
In short :My copy of the new lens is not sharper than my old version. Vignetting on full frame cameras
is significantly less pronounced (not entirely eliminated). VR on the new lens works amazingly well.
At close focusing distance the new lens turns into a 130mm lens.
This reduced magnification can still be observed at over 200 ft,however at infinity it is a 200 mm lens.At about 9feet shooting distance the new lens will give you a picture of 164 mm ,the old lens at the same distance gives you 198mm .Any portrait photographer should be aware of this.The new lens handles very well on a large camera body.