Hey binary! I live in Michigan too!
Most people here would agree with me if I said to start with the MAN 5T. If you wanted to use the other truck it would be perfectly fine, however, we could help you the most with the MAN. The Man is usually the first choice when deciding to build a TTT, because it has all the room needed for those expensive electronics.

Someone else might be able to help you more!
Keep the half-track in mind for future projects!!!!! I would suggest getting some ttt knowledge up your sleeve before you try to tackle a project of that magnitude. But remember, EVERYTHING IS POSSIBLE.
squeegee