Yeah, the directional arrows on the V1 are better, but all the reviews and comparos I've seen put them on par with each other, with the 8500 sometimes winning. The 8500 is sleeker and the V1 is kind of dorky looking, IMHO. If you want to integrate laser, the 8500 is capable of an integrated upgrade. Relying on laser detection won't likely prevent you from getting a ticket. You need to jam it. Escort calls it "shifting."
http://www.passportsr1.com/zr3.htm