
You're forgetting, though, that the D40 has no motor drive in the body, ergo if the lens isn't AF-S, then it'll revert to manual focus. This matters if you're looking to pick up prime lenses like the 50mm 1.8F.
You've had bad luck with the D50 though. I've had it for a good few months without problem.
( , Sun 3 Jun 2007, 20:45, Reply)

mine lasted around 5 months before packing in. Didnt realise about the motor drive.
This link gives a good comparison:
www.digitalreview.ca/Content/Nikon-D40-versus-D50-versus-Pentax-K110D-K100D.shtml
( , Sun 3 Jun 2007, 23:54, Reply)