Probably the best way is to just go to a dealership and see what they have... They can look up prices of every truck around, and see how much of a difference there is. While your there be sure to test drive both. The salesman I had kept trying to get me to test drive a new one, but I already had my mind made up about what I wanted, so I never did before I bought it (just figured it rode like my 99), but boy what a difference. Even my boss who's Ford all the way say it rode amazing.
2WD is definately doable... Especially because of how light they are. But if you ever want to add a plow in the future, or ever have to tow something in the winter, it leaves you kind of regretting it.. Not to mention better resale.
You could always just use your 72 as a summer Daily Driver too
