The old K-member was stamped out of heavy guage steel, making it quite heavy. This was necessary in order to achieve adequate strength from a product that was mass produced on a stamper. The new tubular K-member is much more open, providing easier access to the engine than the old model. The rubber in the old engine mounts have cracked, and would have deteriorated more with use. The new engine mounts use what appear to be steel sleeves sandwiching rubber, like the suspension bushings used in control arms. Note also the extra tubes welded to the new cross member, eliminating the need for a bolt-on "G load" brace. It's also more effective at strengthening the cross member, as it is welded on versus the bolted on G-load braces.