I started up with the Classic Faderport and liked it much but changed to the Faderport 8 and that was a new ball game, I am still using it a lot in conjunction with a SLIII32 the zoom, scroll and bank is nice and it caters a bit more options than the Faderport V2.
The Faderport V2 is in between and will improve the workflow compared to non.
As you say yourself it's about money.
I would go for the V2 if the choice was between the Classic(old) and V2, but that's my 2cents.

Money is always an issue, so there's that.

Do you need to have your fingers on several faders at once or can you focus on building your song or mix one fader move at a time?

The FaderPort V2 is tightly intergrated with S1 and simply works great. It doesn't have as many function buttons as on the FP8 so you may want to compare the differences before making a final decision.

How many inputs do you need on your audio interface? If you're working alone, take a look at the new PreSonus ioSTATION 24c 2x2 USB-C Audio Interface and Production Controller. It has two inputs and the equivalent of the Faderport V2 in one unit. posting.php?mode=reply&f=337&t=39744

If you can afford it and you have the desk-space... 8 > 1 hands-down.

Something else to consider is Softube Fader 1. The Console 1 ecosystem is mind-blowing.

There are plusses and minuses with either (FaderPort 8 vs Softube Fader 1) but either one is fantastic IMO. Personally, I use a Faderport 8 together with the Console 1 and the workflow is great. The fact that the channel strips are amazing certainly is a bonus as well.

To backup @darrenporter1: The console 1 ecosphere is pretty cool. It's actually one of the compelling reasons that I'm not looking at Studio One 5! (though I'll likely get it anyway, because I'm a supporter and loyal to a fault).

I REALLY like my console 1 and the expansion to the British Class A. I reviewed the American Class, and will do more of that as my trial comes to a close on it - but regardless of all of that:

I REALLY like my Faderport 8. I find it more useful than a single would be, for a lot of reasons multiple sliders at a time being the most obvious. Multi-select channels from the controller, a more substantial desktop item, drum mixing!, and more. I have looked at the Console 1 Fader and as an owner of the Faderport 8 I don't see a reason to get it. If I didn't have the FP8, I think I would still opt for it over the C1F because of the integration, and specifically the transport controls, which are (of course), one of hte main attractions.

I got my FP8 on ebay as a "as new" purchase. Look there: mine was basically brand new - in box with no use that I could tell, and I think I paid something like $380 for it. Love it. Don't regret the decision!