The original series 1 model?

PZ has now tested and uploaded the figures on the 70-200VRII to their site:

70-200VRII

and for reference, here's the original 70-200VR figures

There is definitely some improvement if you use raw data to compare the new vs old lens, and the only real (big)improvement seems to be the far edges of the frame at 200mm, as was always a concern with the original lens.

As more of a landscaper, I'd have to say I'd go for the VRII version as I'd want the improved corner performance .. just in case I needed it, but as a dedicated portrait, bird or sports shooter there isn't enough of an increase to justify the added expense.

I've yet to see a h-u-g-e influx of older lenses available on ebay either, and the VRII is still a tad expensive at the grey market price of $2900 that I recently saw it at!