With the new string options like String Templates, Chaining of strings, and embedded expression string functions, we have the ability to create ABAP code with fewer statements for the same functionality, without compromising readability of the code. If you’re working on a ABAP 7.02 – 7.04 based system, I would start using new ABAP coding because they will improve your speed of development and make your programs better maintainable.
HANA
As time has gone by, more and more commands and constructs have been added to the ABAP language. While many changes came as a result of the introduction of SAP NetWeaver 7.02, that is nothing compared to the deluge of change that came with version 7.4. Inline ABAP DATA declarations are a new concept introduced in release 7.4 which allows you to declare your internal table variables or work areas within the code that uses them. This is done simply by adding the DATA(wa_data) or @DATA(it_data) statements.
As time has gone by, more and more commands and constructs have been added to the ABAP language. While nothing has been taken away, this is to ensure backward compatibility, the rate of change seems to be accelerating. While many changes came as a result of the introduction of SAP NetWeaver 7.02, that is nothing compared to the deluge of change that came with version 7.4.