And whats so good about this model compared to a d5100 or the new d5200?
I appreciate the time for reading.
Set both cameras (D300 and D5100/5200) to base ISO and "P" mode and they'll be pretty equal. The difference comes in when you start to learn the camera and how it works and what the settings mean. D300 will be a more user friendly camera when it comes to shooting in Manual setting modes. The entry level cameras tend to have basic settings hidden in menus because most users won't bother with them while the more advanced/pro level cameras have the aperture and shutter speed settings easily changed without taking the camera away from your eye.
To answer your question, the cameras are equal (for the most part) when set to "P" but as soon as you learn about photography and learn what the settings do and what happens when you change settings in "M" mode you'll be wanting to upgrade to a D300 if you have a D5100/5200. Simply put, the D300 is a camera for an amateur/advanced amateur and the D5100/5200 is great for a beginner/advanced beginner.
BTW, the D300 has a built in focus motor for older screw type AF lenses, the D5100/5200 doesn't have this built in AF motor so older lenses will not autofocus.
