Not to be Debbie Downer, but different doesn't mean better. Look at the AMC 20. Same center section, but there are at least 3 versions, with different levels of apparent strength. The CJ AMC 20 was notorious for it's two piece axles, thin weak tubes and plug welds. But the center section is actually stronger than the Dana 44 Center Section, with a larger ring gear and bearings. The Full Size Jeep AMC 20 is apparently stronger than the Dana 44, with it's larger ring gear and thicker tubes, but still has the same plug weld design. And then there is the MJ AMC 20. I would guess it probably has thicker axle tubes, but who knows what AMC was thinking then.
Who knows what level of incomplete the Dana 35 was delivered at, and how AMC finished it.