8 1/4 rear end pros and cons

Wondering how a 8 1/4 would hold up. What are some of your experiences with them. Is it a night and day difference between a 8 3/4 and a 8 1/4. I have one in my sights for a killer deal and the cheapest 8 3/4 ive found is $700 out of a satelite so it would need to be narrowed but it is a suregrip.