I don't know that it matters but the later 7.3's had powdered metal rods as opposed to forged rods. I think this switch over was in 2001. This isn't really an issue until around 500 hp though.

The one thing I think I miss most about my SD is the tow mirrors. I loved those mirrors and haven't found a setup for my OBS that is suitable.

There's a little more room under the hood of the OBS to work though. They didn't put the motor under the cab/ dash as far.

 

Spare body panels are probably more plentiful with the OBS trucks too... You can pull from any truck F150-F-SD... And every scrap yard has a couple OBS trucks, guaranteed