To summerise, "D" lenses do not have a built in focus motor, and relies on the camera to do that for it. Only camera's D90 and up have this. So your D5000 will not focus, but apart from that its the same. the D lens is simply an older version of the same series.
1.8 vs 1.4 is a very diffrent issue, 1.4 means more light, better bokeh, and narrower depth of field.
Also, all lenses are sharpest if the aperture is a bit less that max, so 1.4 is best around f/2, and 1.8 is best around f/2.8. So 1.4 will give you sharper images at 1.8.
Also 1.4 is better made and is sharper at every point.
In the end, its a question of cost (as always): is the benefit of 1.4 worth an extra $300?
I bought the 35 1.8, since i have a limited budget, but your decision might vary.
Finally, a word about focal length; 50mm on DX is 75mm which is a very good "portrait" length. you will get very good portraits from a 50mm 1.8 or 1.4.
on the other hand 35mm on DX is 52mm, which is a better general purpose lens.