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However, many of these Series E optic performs surprisingly good uniform image quality. Some of Nikon innovation such as NIC was used throughout in these lenses and overall, optical quality were generally above average if other third party lenses of comparing focal length were compared. In fact, based on technical specifications, many of the series E lenses are a replica of the more famed Nikkor optics. In some isolated cases, they may have even a slightly better design. Just take the Zoom Nikkor 70-210mm f/4.0 which incorporates a macro setting to enable it close focus down to 2 ft !

From the same article

Over the years, Nikon users have dividing opinion with introduction of Series E lenses by its creator. That was not surprising as these lenses present a strong feel of plastic construction which can be an entirely differing experience if you have used a Nikkor lens before. There were obvious short cuts here and there, for instance, on the user interface, the focusing ring on the Series E 50mm f1.8 and Series E 35mm f2.5 prime wideangle lenses were being designed to have even shorter width than the aperture ring's. All of the prime lenses other than the E 50mm f/1.8 lens have a concealed type of distance scale. The aperture ring were designed with a new shallow plastic embossed texture for early versions. The all plastic square / rectangular grips design of aperture ring generates an uneasy thought over its possible long lasting capability. The feel of solid, positive click stop when you turn the ring was heavily missed and generally, the great reduction of weight in general combined also adds a layer of discomfort and projects a fragile feeling to their thought. The chrome lens fastening ring commonly found on other Nikkor MF lenses was being replaced with plastic too in the early versions. The heavily negative comments from users eventually forced Nikon to replace them with a metal ring (Aluminum). Generally, these were the generally weaker points used in the design of the Nikon E Series lenses.