Hard to argue with that logic DrBob!
Personally, from just looking at them, I'd go for the '73.
I like the portholes better, it has round headlights, and there's no recent paint to decide on giving up because it's not to my liking.
But that's just me.
Don't know about value.
There was a '73 shorty near me recently that had the original grille, portholes, recent paint, and leftover shag interior.
It had a couple of mechanical issues, but ran and drove (according to the seller).
The price started at around $3800, but it ended up selling for around $1500.
I don't how that one compares to these vans though.
I just thought I'd throw that in.