The latest ultegra are like the current DA, with the triple (?) pull system, they are pretty awesome, think you need the right STI lever to pull them though or they might feel a bit weird/ not function 100%
The gen of ult that has just gone out with the standard dual pulls, I think the metal casting is similar between 105 and ult, but its maybe a different alloy? Biggest difference is the pivot has more machined components in it vs. 105 has a few washers, and they have a nicer finish.
105 > tiagra there is less difference. Although as a rule of thumb, tiagra is like old 105, 105 is like old ult, ult is like old DA etc. The technology trickles down, but they cut the cost by using cheaper materials, finish, and removing machined components and substituting off the shelf parts etc.