I am sure the difference with it is just like the 9" and the 8.75, the ring gear diameter isn't different enough to matter but the support around the pinion is better so there is less deflection.

I have seen slow cars break 8.8s but I have seen way more people go 8s with them with only minimal mods(girdle cover and axles).

The Ford Explorer 97-02ish 8.8s are good upgrades for lots of muscle cars. The size is pretty good for lots of cars and they have 3.73 or 4.10 gears, 31 spline axles, and good disc brakes. I have had an explorer 8.8 in my Jeep with 4.56s and a drop in locker for a very long time, good axle.