Here is a quick specifications comparison between the new and old Nikkor 400mm f/2.8 versions:
| NIKKOR 400mm f/2.8E FL ED VR (new version) | NIKKOR 400mm f/2.8G ED VR (old version) | |
 | | |
| MTF Chart |  |  |
| Lens Design |  |  |
| Focal Length | 400mm | 400mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/2.8 | f/2.8 |
| Minimum Aperture | f/22 | f/22 |
| Format | FX/35mm | FX/35mm |
| Maximum Angle of View (DX-format) | 4° | 4° |
| Maximum Angle of View (FX-format) | 6°10′ | 6°10′ |
| Maximum Reproduction Ratio | 0.16x | 0.16x |
| Lens Elements | 16 | 14 |
| Lens Groups | 12 | 11 |
| Compatible Format(s) | FX DX | FX DX FX in DX Crop Mode 35mm Film |
| VR (Vibration Reduction) Image Stabilization | Yes | Yes |
| Diaphragm Blades | 9 | 9 |
| Nano Crystal Coat | Yes | Yes |
| ED Glass Elements | 2 | 3 |
| Super Integrated Coating | Yes | Yes |
| AF-S (Silent Wave Motor) | Yes | Yes |
| Internal Focusing | Yes | Yes |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 8.53ft. (2.6m) | 9.5ft. (2.9m) |
| Focus Mode | Auto Manual Manual/Auto Auto/Manual | Auto Manual Manual/Auto Auto/Manual |
| Filter Size | 40.5mm | 52mm |
| Accepts Filter Type | Slip-in | Slip-in |
| Approx. Dimensions (Diameter x Length) | 6.3in.(159.5mm)x14.09in.(358mm) Based on CIPA Guidelines | 6.3in.(159.5mm)x14.5in.(368mm) |
| Approx. Weight | 134oz.(3800g)Based on CIPA Guidelines | 163oz.(4,620g) |
| Price | $11,999,95 | $8,999 |
