Mine is pre-Vtec the change happened in 2001 with the Fi model being turned into the Vtec model. I have read quite a lot about but never had chance to try the Vtec I believe most of the complaints relate to the step-up being a rather large change in power due to the way that Vtec works on these engines; normally Vtec is a change into a more aggressive cam profile for higher rev range, however on this engine it actually means another valve is opened in the higher rev range to increase power, hence the larger step. This was not liked by a reasonable amount of people however the 2002 onward Vtec VFRs are still very popular, there was even a guy on a VFR forum who put the older Fi engine into the more modern Vtec chassis and I believe he really enjoyed the results! Also if your curious there was a guy doing supercharger kits for both models (google torocharger)!
As far as linked brakes go this means that when you apply either brake lever it applies both brakes, the front calipers are 6 pots, 4 of which are actuated by the front brake lever the other 2 (middle pistons) are actuated by the rear brake lever, this is the same on the rear but opposite ways round. What this translates to on the bike is actually quite a nice controlled ride, pull the brakes and the bike will squat as a whole instead of front/rear it isn't easily upset and stops you well, however the rear brake can feel a bit wooden at times. My father has a 2007 ST1300 Pan which I have ridden, this also has the linked brakes and it is obvious to see that when riding this the system has improved overtime offering a slightly more traditional feeling but still the same behaviour of a full bike squat when hard braking instead of front/rear independent. I have toyed with the idea of removing the linked system but is quite a cost to do so that I don't believe will offer the biggest benefit.
Just another quick point in regard to handling and use the VFR is exceptional for long distance journeys, happy to sit at double or triple figure speeds with little effort, a double bubble screen for the front is highly advisable to put the wind up just enough onto your shoulders to rest against at anything above 40mph (below 40mph for long periods of time the bike can be a bit of a pig on the wrists), my friend has the use of a VFR800 and his own ZX7R, when given a choice for distance riding he always takes the VFR!
Quite a lot of words there, but like I said hope it helps and if you want any more just ask.