I have the light weight east/west shopper from a few years ago. It is my everyday shlep to work and home bag. I like its thick smooshiness and can fit it into all overhead bins and shelves. Mine is an orangey-pink and i can wear on my shoulder and carry other stuff. I wear it with everything.
I think the two bags are totally different. This bag is dressier, even in the vegetal finishi because it keeps its shape. Depends on the look you are going for. Also, I think the newer light shoppers have different leather -- thinner and more wrinkley.