deciding whether to upgrade to new gear

Question
I am trying to decide whether to buy a new board.

I have been sailing since 1980.  I have been windsurfing since 1988.  I consider myself an intermediate.  I haven't really logged alot of windsurfing hours but I know how to beach start, plane, get in harness and foot straps.  I still need to learn how to water start, and jibing.  

I sail on man made lakes.  I weigh 170 lbs, 5'9".

I have an 11 ft 1988 fanatic club.  It has a retractable dagger board and still planes well.  I still enjoy the board.     

Here are my questions...

1.  Are the new boards (2010,11,12) that much better that I would notice a huge difference in regard to planing, speed, stability, comfort, and just overall windsurfing fun and enjoyment?

2.  Do you think just buying a new rig (new modern boom, skinny mast, and new sails (5.0 6.5, 9.0) would improve my windsurfing experience without buying a new board?  Ultimately, I would like to be able to plane in lighter winds (say 10-12mph).  I usually need at least 15mph to plane with my current setup.


3.  If you think it would be worth upgrading my board, what size board would you recommend?  The 2011,2012 fanatic viper has caught my eye.  Do you think this board be a good fit for me?

I appreciate you taking the time to answer my questions.  My local windsurf shop only sells one line of boards and doesn't really have the background in the new windsurfing gear to answer my questions.

thanks!
Scott

Answer
Sorry for the late reply, I just got back from Cabarete in the Domincan Republic on a windsurfing vacation!
1/1. Yes definitely!
2/2. New sail will have a different balance and would not be compatible with a board that is over 10 years old.
3/3. I would recommend a board in the 135 to 150 liter range.  You should be able to plane in 10 to 12 mph with a 9.0.  The smallest sail for that size would probably be a 6.0.  Call Roy at Ace Performer (239) 489-3513 he loves to talk about what size would be good and he knows all about the newest and the best equipment.  He really knows his stuff and is not interested in just selling equipment.
I would recommend a board without a daggerboard.  The Viper, I believe has a daggerboard and is more of a learning transition board.  I think you would get more adrenaline speed rush from a board without a center board ( daggerboard ) and I think you have enough experience to handle it.   I do feel that the best way to buy a new board is to demo it first but that is not always possible.