Ok - we're going to put these two heavyweights in the ring and see who ends up on the bottom. We'll answer the questions they don't even dare ask on Dpreview. So, which of these cameras takes the best snaps?

Actually more to the point, which of these two buggers is heavier? Don't have my scales with me but it would not surpise me if it was the Leica, given that it's fashioned from a solid block of Thousand Year Reich steel, finished with brass counterweights. (woops sorry, the war finished 15 years before my Leica was made, but what the hell).

On a serious note the question is completely irrelevant of course. Here's my take on the digital vs. analogue debate.

1) Image quailty doesn't really figure in this if all you're interested in is sharp photos. For most photographic purposes the quality produced by 40 year old Leica glass, film, etc and 21st century computer/cameras is more than adequate.

2) Image character is different - I'm not going to get into the Leica-look debate, but there is something in it.

3) If you're taking photos at a football match, maybe leave the Leica at home

4) If you're taking candid shots in a quiet cafe, the Canon will make you look like someone with more camera than common sense, and might well arouse comments such as "don't point that fucking thing at me - asshole". With the M3 you are more likely to get "hey, is that a, you know, camera?"

Shucks - I've made my point - horses for courses. Of course I didn't talk about workflow.... maybe next time