If Qantas upgrades non-status customers, are there any benefits to having status with them? Is this policy for domestic only?

I remember flying with AA when I was younger (10 years ago), and remember them having an older fleet. Is this still the case? I read that they codeshare with Qantas on transpacific flights; how do they compare with Delta? I flew the 777-200 on the way over (seat 30 ) and found it pretty comfortable.

I spoke with a Qantas rep today, and they said they don't do seat upgrades for status, while I've gathered from the Delta forums that medallion upgrades are at least possible. Can someone confirm/deny whether this is true for international?

It looks like redeeming transpacific flights are cheaper with Qantas (PER-LAX) than Delta (MSP-PER). -- everything is at least medium cost. >.<

I'm deciding to not go with Alaskan Airlines since they only give a percentage of the miles flown.