I've ridden both and have an XC/EC hybrid. It depends on your terrain, skill, and aggression level which might be best. ECs have a more mellow power delivery with a heavier flywheel. This is done with the ignition map only, porting is the same. The XCs sit a little taller (15mm) and are a little stiffer stock. For slick, tight, technical conditions, in stock trim, the EC is a better choice. The WP fork is a higher quality component than the Marzocchi, but the Zokes work well when set up and maintained properly.
Glenn
'00 GasGas XC250
Glenn
'00 GasGas XC250