"A little better" is good enough for me

I disagree slightly about both types being rubbish since if you compare the two fans side by side it is quite clear that the later type is much improved... Also the actuators/flaps inside the box are better quality in the later type. Not to mention the switch design and wiring etc.
Either way I want the heater to be the best it can be whilst maintaining originality (I won't be fitting an 86> dash anytime soon!!) and this is a good move forward IMO.
That said, it's a lot of effort for the home mechanic!