Not only is nVidia the performance leader, but I also do not appreciate over-saturated colors masquerading as somehow "better" than realistically rendered ones. But the real deal killer for ATI is the difference in warranty between them and EVGA, arguably the best maker of nVidia cards. EVGA has a lifetime replacement warranty on all, including overclocked (!) cards they sell.
Even if the ATI card were marginally better, if it augers in you're going to wish you had an nVidia card from EVGA.
I just had a nasty experience where 6 the electrolytic caps on one of my 7600GT cards exploded:
Kaboom! That card is toast!. Now this would be considered physical damage not covered by normal companies, but not EVGA. "We'll be glad to replace your card" they said after examining this very photo, which I sent to ensure that they understood what happened. Why would I consider any other company? ATI's out of business in my house.
