Questions about 23cc outboards

[Bobby23]

I am looking for a new 23 and was wondering if anyone could tell me what the quality difference is between the 1970's and 1980's models? Why so many of you are putting on brackets, is it a performance issue or a preference? I owned a 1987 23 with a single Armstrong bracket and I would rather a motor well. As for quality, it was solid with very few cracks but I have been told some horror stories. I would appreciate any advice to make my next purchase a success. Thanks Bobby