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I am looking at getting a zoom lens. Ideally, it would be the Nikkor 28-70mm f/2.8 AF-S. However, it is expensive and is outside of my budget.
Two good alternative lenses that cover similar range are Nikkor 35-70mm AF-D and Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8. Both are excellent lenses, both lenses cost about the same; each has its advantages over other one.

My concerns: The 35-70mm is older and was designed
to be used on a film camera. The Tamron has been known for having AF issues. Particularly, the 28-75mm model. Therefore, importing this model could risky.

What are your thoughts on these two lenses?

I have the Tamron 28-75mm and have absolutely no problems with focusing, in fact it is fast and accurate

I don't have either of those lenses, but I do have the Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED II which is very cheap - especially from Poon. I use it as my main lens for underwater and I'm very happy with it.

Have you also considered the Sigma 24-70 f/2.8? It is a nice lens for good value.

I have seen very good samples of both (Tamron & Sigma) lenses, they are very sharp when stopped down. Not too bad wide open but you can't complain with the price.

I can't answer the AF issue on the Tamron, but from what I know they both are screw-drive AF lenses and shouldn't be too slow either.

I got the Nikkor 28-70, it is a beast of a lens, it is not one to be lugging around the streets because it scares people
In terms of quality, optics and speed, I'm blown away by this lens. It is simply amazing in every aspect, except its not so wide option on DX sensors and its size.

i've got the tamron 28-75 and i can happily say im a happy camper.
afaik, there is no focus issues with it.
very sharp for its price even wide open. blows the kitlens away all things equal.

however, im not sure if its a body issue or lens issue but i do sometimes find the AF missing when i use the outer 4 zones on my D70s. i really hope its just a body needing re-calibration or whatever..

-j

EDIT: 28-75 tamron can be used with no problems on 35mm film afaik.