Mini or no mini
Mini starter all the way. I got mine from the junkyard. I didnt even need to hit the yard and use my tools. Owner told name to check the shelves. I found one with a remanned tag on it that looked fresh and clean for $20. We checked it with a battery and jumper cables. From what I have read, the only thing besides worn out motor brushes that goes wrong with these Denso mini starters is the solenoid contactor. All easy fixes.
The OEM " big dog" gear reduction starters are 1.6, and 1.8 hp. This was cutting edge and they were actually concidered light in weight at one time. These are fine for a full on exacting restoration, however time marches on. These little 8lb power houses put out 2.25 hp and can be found on every magnum V8 and V6 truck or van in the junkyard. They are so dirt cheap, because they are everywhere.
Another plus is the location of the studs for the wiring is in the same location as the stock starter so no wiring mods or wire relocation is needed to run a mini denso. I actually have 3 of em now. Got another one for my kids car from the same junkyard, and got a spare from a dodge dakota with a V6 that I bought for the transmission.