YMMV, I find modern flashgun systems almost incomprehensibly complicated as they try to pack so many features into such a limited interface.
You do need to read the manual, but as with modern cameras, you learn what you need and ignore the rest.
Even when used in just Manual and Auto modes a Nikon flash such as the SB80DX will have the following advantages over an old school workhorse like the Vivitar 283:
- a full range of apertures in Auto mode
- accurate manual control in third stops, from full power to 1/128 power in Manual mode
- more even light output
- a zoomable light beam from 14mm to 105mm. (Vivitar 283 is fixed at 35mm).
- cleaner light. (Vivitar 283 has a yellow tint)
- swivel as well as tilt for bounced flash (Vivitar is only tilt)
- built in slave
- modelling light feature
I used to shoot with Vivitars, but I much prefer the Nikons I use now.