I think I want a Garand. Should I opt for the new SA production, or is there any benefit to getting an older model?

well, it depends on what you want.  this gun is an iron sighted battle rifle.  that's it.  any scope mount you try to put on it is suspect.  i shoot mine out to 200 yds and it's a great gun.  plenty on deer (if i don't want to break out the sniper rifle)  you can go with CMP and get a piece of history (that's what i did).  or get a brand new one from SA.  mine was 500.00 a new one will run you 800.00--1000.00.  mine has a well used stock with lots of heavy dents and scratches so i don't feel bad if it get's another ding.  mine came with a nice trigger all the new ones i picked up had sloppy triggers.  new barrel vs mine that came with +3000 rounds.  if you offered me a new Garand in trade for "my piece of history" i wouldn't trade.  a new one and $200.00 well maybe.  

if i get another one i would get a new one.
or a receiver and have Fulton armory build one.

CMP is the way to go, or a USGI rifle which has been reconditioned by one of the better shops.

Why buy a reproduction rifle (SA)?

-- Chuck

 I am very sentimental about the old Garands I do like to treat them gently even though they are tough as nails.  I am just a real softy about them...I would feel less guilt about using one of the new ones hard even though it, too, is mostly old components...it's just not the same thing.  
This is probably sentimental to the point of being stupid...but oh well.