Yes, is there is one small difference, other than the obvious number and driver name differences. It is the small logo on the the rear view mirrors of the # 7 car that are not on the #8. You can see it clrearly in madmacks pics. Here is the pic of the #7 & #8:
As for the diecast content, I can't help you there because I didn't bother to read up on the Hasbro version, but the Takara version has plenty of die cast for me, and no stickers.