I have read in a couple places that the clutch is different in the new 7 speed sportshift II vs the old 6 speed sportshift. Any evidence that it will last longer than the old clutch?

 

In theory it should last longer. That's all I know. With Sportshift's in general, if you stay out of traffic, 1st gear, and reverse, the clutch should last a long time.

 

Consensus from a poll I did on PH is the manual is most vulnerable, probably due to different people driving styles. The ASM's seem to be a lot better than the mythology suggests (especially if the clutch learns are done)

http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/t...hes!&mid=61237

 

Supposedly sport shift 2 does not slip the clutch in reverse like sportshift 1 which give it much improved clutch wear over the old tranny.

 

You are referring to "creep mode" on ASM1
That actually works in first and reverse and only slips the clutch if you have not done the learns or you feather either pedal whilst it is in that mode.
You are right in that ASM2 drops that feature more importantly is has a lower reverse gear ratio closer to first than second
However ASM2 also drops the oil cooler which may a problem later down the line.