There are a number of reasons for upgrading to the newer GM MAFs and a translator. First of which is that fact that the newer GM MAFs are FAR more reliable, a LOT cheaper than the plastic stocker, and first and formost is that the originals are no longer available. Your are forced to spend upwards of $400-$500 if you can find an NOS unit, or buy a remanufactured unit which have been proven over the years to exhibit very unreliable calibration curves, assuming you even get the correct one. Many parts houses just sell you one for any old normally aspirated 3.8 and things then get even worse.
Then, factor in the added advantage of having more tuning options available to you in whichever Translator you select. There are three, depending on a persons desire for additional tuning features.
Getting and Extender chip to match the Translator you've chosen will add even more tuning features available to the operator.
1. Regular Translator... The easiest plug and go model. Just set one knob inside to identify the MAF you've chosen, and another knob for WOT fuel delivery tuning (with appropriate extender chip)
2. Translator GENII... Which is the replacement for the Translator Plus. It adds far more tuning features across the entire operating band, and even adds WOT wideband tracking if desirable.
3. Translator Pro...(the one I've graduated to) The ulitimate Translator which adds far more features than even the GENII. Wideband tracking across the entire band if desired, or any part of it. Closed loop boost control via the stock harness. Staged dual fuel pump control. AND MOST IMPORTANTLY, THE ABILITY TO RUN SPEED DENSITY (Mafless). The unit is so good that you can use it to run a MAF or run SPEED DENSITY, with some minor tuning changes. I have a bin file for both. Just to feed my endless desire to tinker. I got my maf file tuned to run perfectly, then I remove the maf, switch the Translator to speed density, and load that tune file and again run flawlessly, although slightly zippier because of the better flowing intake tract and VE table tuning.
Your choices are multi faceted but a Translator and matching Extender chip will make for a far better running car!!!