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There are many important things about a lens besides center sharpness, but TMHO, center sharpness is a very important characteristic. There is quite a bit of debate on different fora about Nikkor 17-35 F2.8 vs 17-55 f2.8.
I had both and did a humble comparison...
Pictures were taken with D300 on tripod.

the scene:


@ 17mm and F2.8 (17-35 left, 17-55 right)


@ 17mm and F7.1(17-35 left, 17-55 right)


@ 24mm and F2.8(17-35 left, 17-55 right)


@ 24mm and F7.1(17-35 left, 17-55 right)


@ 35mm and F2.8(17-35 left, 17-55 right)


@ 35mm and F7.1(17-35 left, 17-55 right)


Based on the copies I have, the 17-55F2.8 is sharper and renders better contrast, colours and detail than the 17-35 F2.8.

This result could be related to sample variation, about which Bjorn Rorslett wrote an additional comment in his 17-35 review.(http://www.naturfotograf.com/17_35_review.html)
Upto that and TMHO, the 17-35 was designed in a period when film was still leading, the 17-55 F2.8 target is digital DX format cameras.

Thanks for your attention and kindest regards,

Stany Buyle

I agree there is a small difference in favour of the 17-55 but both look excellent to me... you are comparing a Porsche to a Ferrari :D
Interesting test anyway.