feaansys,
I have used ANSYS for 5 years and switched to ABAQUS about 6 months ago. In my opinion ABAQUS is a hands down winner.
If you compare the price, ABAQUS is significantly more expensive. However if you are able to put the software to use for product development, the cost will be recovered in a very short time.
Basic structure of ABAQUS is so much more logical as compared to ANSYS. Documentation is so much easier to use. Technical support is significantly superior from ABAQUS. In ANSYS model, the distributor who sells the software and does consulting work, also provides the technical support. The same person is performing all three activities,it is no wonder the technical support falls last on the priority list.
In terms of technical capabilities, ABAQUS is superior.
The new interface from ABAQUS called ABAQUS CAE is so much easier to use compared to ANSYS.
If you can afford it, ABAQUS is the way to go.
Thanks,
Gurmeet