Hi Dennis
I don't know if there is a general consensus about the qualities of lenses. In my experience I find a special character, a typical fingerprint on each brand. Each one suites for certain sujets. I compared over the time Canon, Nikon, Leica and Zeiss (plus Rodenstock, Rollei and Schneider). One ex&le is the difference between Leica and Contax. Leica: steep contrast, colourful, brillant, sparkling lights, glowing depths, 3dimensional and powerful effect, but not very sharp (contrast simulates crispness), different parts of pictures falling apart, less coherence, harsh darks, less fine hues, on a first glimpse great impression but quick psychical supersaturation in contemplating the pictures (like permanently eating fancy cake)
Zeiss: very fine and filigree details, really sharp, rendition character is matching the sujet, fine hues, catching great atmosphere, much longer contemplating time, but less »boxing-glove« power, not so great first-view-impression.
After decades of comparing (purchased 5 Leica equipments and sold it after a while) my decision goes to Zeiss for the best over-all-quality.
Greetings
Ray