Let me be clear, I have great respect for nines, I have two in cars with 14"slicks, I know how strong they are (if you put good parts in them). And the gear ratios available is a big plus compared to a Dana.
I just think a Dana looks much better in a Mopar, the weight thing is overblown, and a killer strong Dana can be done for a lot less money than a nine. I have been getting by with my 8 3/4, but I should put in a Dana before I bust it.