What is the difference between the two. Spec wise the classified seems to be better than the VR edition, but it's $10 cheaper. I have my 780 ti classified that I was thinking of selling and then picking up the 980 ti classy, but the VR edition made me curious.

You should try Hybrid version.
I love overclocked cards as well but Hybrids are in big advantage on temperature field over any other model.
Off course Hybrid is not my favorite model, much better is Hybro Copper but I Hybrid is in advantage to all other cards, reference, dual cooler, triple cooler, custom air coolers,... And they are only little less overclocked than Classified.
Any gamer who install one Hybrid 980Ti or TITAN X and CORSAIR H110i GT don't need single case fans and his ambien temperatures will be better than people with 5 fans and dual cooler cards.
EVGA GTX980Ti Classified is good because waterblocks are easy to find and for cheaper price from people who used with GTX780Ti Classified.
And because it's not expensive in USA. Only 20$ more than reference Superclocked.