The Canon A85 and the Kodak DX7440 are aimed at the same customer. So they will be quite similar.

Here is a specification comparison chart:

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/compare_post.asp?method=sidebyside&cameras=canon_a85%2Ckodak_dx7440&show=all

Here are reviews on both by one person:

http://www.steves-digicams.com/2004_reviews/dx7440_pg5.html

http://www.steves-digicams.com/2004_reviews/a85_pg7.html

I have chosen to start the reviews on the author's conclusion page so that we see his summation.

Your Questions:

Canon does have a burst mode - they call it "sequential shooting"

Batteries: The real advantage of a camera that can use AA Alkaline batteries is that if they poop-out during a day of shooting, you can visit a nearby store and buy more at a reasonable price and continue shooting.
The disadavantage is that you really should use NiMH rechargable AA batteries which the camera maker usually does not include with the camera. So you will need to buy some for $10 to $20 dollars (with a charger).

Kodak finally decided to compete with the big boys and they have made good progress. They have been making improvements with each new release. The decision to use the Schneider lens is a big plus.

...
..
.