I just bought a T2 and T3, both with cases for $50 each. Beautiful readers, both immaculate. It's a real shame they'll be no more, but I'll be okay for 2-3 years
I do think the T2 is nicer than the T1. The T3 seems very comparable to the T2, though apparently the screen-def is higher, but I can't see a difference.
I also think these old pre-frontlight pearl screens are clearer to the newer lighted and Carta screens. And they flick between pages quicker.
Newer is not always better. Indeed, it seems to more and more the case.