lens - What are the most notable differences between Canon and Nikon lenses?

I'm currently considering to buy one of the next generation enthusiast DSLRs. Either a Canon EOS 60D or the slightly more expensive Nikon D7000. I'm quite new to the SLR discussion but I know there are some controversial opinions about Canon vs. Nikon.

But I often read that (the better) Nikon lenses are higher quality but also much more expensive (more premium, in quality and in price). Is that the case?

What is your opinion of the Canon vs. Nikon lens comparison? Which types of lenses are better from Canon which are higher quality from Nikon? How do the prices compare? What is the quality/price ratio in your opinion?

Answer

Some starter references (while these sites might be biased, they do enumerate the points to look at).

^{Some of the discussions also compare Nikon and Canon bodies}

1. Canon versus Nikon lenses at Radiant Lite Photography
   
   
   
   • rounds up with a reference to third party pro grade lenses such as Sigma, Tokina and Tamron.
   
   
   
   


2. Nikon vs. Canon at Kenrockwell.com
   
   



3. A list of Nikon D1 Lenses and one of Canon lenses.


4. An old (film) Nikon and Canon comparison as reference