A57 or A77 ?

Hi.

Due to a deal currently running I am able to get a A77 model for about $ 250 more than A57. Even though it may be a stretch i am tempted to consider A77 instead especially due to weather resistance among larger better sensor and other niceties.

In Spite of all the pluses in A77, i have noticed that Clear image zoom and a few other features are missing in A77?

What do you suggest, this will be my 1st DSLR which i intend to hold on to next 3-5 years while i learn photography.

Cheers.

Ash