I've actually never tried the old MC tote on, but was this close to buying the new one in Vegas yesterday! It's so beautiful, and lightweight given the chains/its size. The leather doesn't have a weird sheen to it or anything, it's extremely subtle and so nice! IMO, it's the perfect Chanel tote that borders on edgy, which I've been dying to find... I liked it so much that I want it in black and dark brown haha!