New firmware corrected the battery usage issue. The latest firmware for the D200 is A: 2.01
B: 2.01
If the camera doesn't have these numbers, it needs to be updated. Firmware is downloadable from Nikon web site, free. Upgrading firmware (in any camera) must be followed to the letter!)
Like I keep telling Lucien...if it came to deciding which camera to go for...the D80 or the D200....it would be the D200 hands down! If it comes down to the age of the technology of both cameras, they're both "older" tech. However, in terms of body build quality, the D200 wins; magnesium vs plastic body of the D80, weather sealing of the D200, general camera heft and weight...not an issue. Come on...you're not holding it out at arms length 24 hours a day! It comes with a strap that hangs around your neck to take the weight off your arms when not in use.
It has a built in focus motor, allowing the use of non motorized lenses, therefor more options in lens selection:
The following lenses can be used with the D300 / D200:
The D100, D80, D70, D70s or D50 have a standard "F" type Nikon lens mount, the same lens mount Nikon has used in practically every SLR we have ever made. Best performance and functionality will be achieved when "D" or "G" type CPU lenses ("G" lenses have no aperture ring and are marked as "G".) are used, but many other Nikon lenses and accessories can be used.
In general, any Nikon Autofocus lens will work fine on these cameras. Most older, manual focus, lenses can be mounted, but the camera's internal exposure meter will not work. For specific compatibility see the chart below: