Well, I hope I qualify as I was into SF:P1 before the beginning.
And it is a matter of personal taste. I also prefer the more modern aircraft, and am very happy with the range terrain,
to shake out a new airframe, or after those regrettable month+ layoffs, like I just experienced.
WoV `84 is quite nice as well, but needs some tweaks to work with WoE, as it is a stand-alone based on WoV.
The Israeli terrain has always been great, and has been updated to a V1.4, especially considering current events.
I would love to see a campaign, based on todays events.
When it comes to airframes, things are in a bit of flux, as SP4+ has made a few aircraft obsolescent, at least if you
want CCIP and sidewinder cue circles.
Bottom line? It's all great! Just pick what you like for the vast array out there, and enjoy...