the 4.1 is weaker in a variety of areas, the deck, lifter valley, probably less webbing in some spots. metallurgically they're about the same as far as I know. The 4.1 uses the same crank, and from what I understand all of a certain model year of 4.1 are rolled fillet cranks, but you'll have to doublecheck in case it has been rebuilt and a cheap crank thrown in. Can't use the 8445 heads either I don't think. intake is definitely different due to deck height issues. There are a bunch of threads already out there on this, search for them. Some really good info. Personally, I would stick with the 3.8. it's a proven combo, is stronger, more is known about the ups and downs of it, etc.