Audio Technica VM vs. AT-VM series


Audio Technica seems to have updated their VM series cartridges with a parallel AT-VM series. Going mostly by the color of the replaceable stylus portion I see that the older VM models have better reported specs, but I know specs really aren't everything. Does anyone know or have an opinion on how the updated models compare to the original series? I'm not particularly looking for a better cartridge than these, or a better brand. I used the old "caramel" colored Audio Techinca cartridge for years, from the late 70s through the mid 90s and it always seemed like an excellent value. Has anyone else tried the new series? Does anyone else have more specific info on what has changed and whether or not it's generally for the better or worse?
stingray26
Holy Grail of Audio-Technica MM is very rare AT-ML series, the best models are from the early 80’s, you can read more in this sold listing. Upgraded from AT-ML170 OFC to AT-ML180 OCC and this one is in my top5 MM ever.
I can't see two distinct lines at Audio-Technica's European web site, unless you mean VM and VM95, where the latter is the replacement for the old AT-95.