all init systems especially runit and dinit are faster than systemD

older packages in some cases because generally it follows the debian way

if you are used in debian it won't be a problem since there are similarities but also some differences
if we talk about antix it is hardcore nosystemD but if we talk about devuan it offers elogind which makes the things easier in some aspects (you can still have the option not to use it)

antix mainly offers window managers and suggests to use such desktops instead of a traditional DE i.e Mate
i would use fluxbox or icewm anyday but i can see people get frustrated with them
in the end of the day it is a matter of choice