New 24-85 vs 16-85

This 24-85 f2.8-4 is a rarely quoted lens, a bit old fashioned and overpriced. It doesn't have the startling contrast and apparent sharpness that some of the newer DX lenses seem to have, but detail is there. I think this lens's problem is one of falling between two stools- both variable aperture and no VR ,whereas most pros & aspirationals are going for their f2.8s and the rest of the amateurs are going for the slow VR lenses. I used it because I wouldn't commit to the size and expense of the constant f2.8 lenses.