Jiraiya said in one of the chapters that he suspected Madara may have summoned Kyuubi to attack Konoha. So people outside the Uchiha did know about their ability with the Kyuubi.

I don't think we can pass judgement on which ability is stronger yet, though I admit the Rin'negan must be something totally wacky to be able to outdo the Sharingan.

I don't quite get how the Uchiha can have such a blood drenched history and be allowed to be the police force of Konoha. Going by what Itachi was saying it sounds as if there has been turmoil in the clan in its entire history, yet I find it hard to believe that such a murderous clan would be given the responsibility to ensure law and order by the Hokages.

About Madara being a shell of his former self; he would well be a shell but if he was so awesome to start out with he could still be more powerful than the rest of akatsuki.