Viper is the #1 brand (Well, along with all DEI products).
I have the 350HV...
The Good :
-Remote is effective up to a block away (I don't need to be 3ft from my car to un/lock it)
-It has an adjustable shock sensor (meaning you can make it less sensitive to vibrations, which means less false alarms)
-It has a valet function (Meaning that disables the alarm or prevents it from being automatically locked during a car wash). I don't think this alarm has the "auto-lock" feature... the one that automatically locks your car if you were away for a few seconds. That would be an annoying feature for me.
-Very effective. Has different tones to let you know if the alarm was triggered. A "smart" built-in feature prevents the alarm from sounding all night if it detects excessive "false" alarms.
-Doors are auto-locked only when all doors are closed and car is moved from "P" setting.
-It's a DEI product. Highest reliability.
The Bad :
-It's not the special $89 alarm. Installed, it may cost you anywhere from $175-250.
-Not all alarm shops carry Viper because most people just want cheaper alarm systems.
Additional cool things:
-Remote start: Available for $100-150 extra (Allows you to start your car with the remote control)
-Windows Up/Down: Available for $40-75 extra (Allows you to open and close your windows). It also closes your windows when you lock your car... good feature.
-You can also add the start trunk open features if you don't have the solenoid already installed.
I'm not sure what you mean with the Old "Viper" remote of your friend. Mine seems to work fine.
http://www.directed.com/security/viper/viper_esp.asp 