DR350 vs. DRZ400

[Pantaz]

Although I'd love a new DR-Z400 I just can't afford one. However... I've found a couple of DR350 in my price range. 50cc doesn't sound like much, but I wonder how much different the power is between a 1994 DR350 and a 2001 DRZ400?
I mostly trail ride a 1980 RM400 (a whole lot of 1st and 2nd gear in sand and rocks.) I've also spent a fair amount of time on a friend's '96 XR600R -- GREAT bike, but a bit heavy. I want to start participating in dual-sport rides. I believe most of the DS events involve little street riding, so highway capability is not a big deal. (I have a FJ1200 for real street riding.)
Electric start is really making me salivate! How is the reliability of the starters on the DR series?

 

[tigerowner]

The DRZ is a much better bike mainly due to the chassis. Frankly power means nothing without a chassis. You can be fairly fast on a DR350 but you will feel the pain the next day. If spirited trail riding is your main focus a DR will work but if you want to compete in any class a DRZ is definitely a step up. Another bike that is a decent choice is a KLX300. You can find these for a good price and the weight is a bit less and the suspension can be modified if you need anything better.