1999 was THE year but 2000 and 2001 were pretty good too!

See a comparison at:

http://members.shaw.ca/deercroft/secomparison98-02.doc

For detailed discussions year by year:

1998 benefits (any fare, 4 in package, confirmable at 72 hrs and only N. America!):
http://www.flyertalk.com/pasttalk/ft...ML/000040.html

1999 benefits (any fare, confirmable at reservation, 8 in package):
http://www.flyertalk.com/pasttalk/ft...ML/000089.html

2000 benefits (eliminated Q and L fare on upgrades, confirmable at reservation, still 8 in package):
http://www.flyertalk.com/pasttalk/ft...ML/000435.html

2001 benefits (upgrades just like 2000):
http://www.flyertalk.com/pasttalk/ft...ML/001755.html