>> is there a reason or advantage with the 64 bit compiler ?
Or indeed, his 32 bit compiler.
The advantage of the 64 bit compiler I see, is future-proofing. In the unlikely event that MS uncouples V7 C++ support in Windows, there is a path forward.
In practice, 32-bit is the one we use. 64-bit we look at for scaling server apps where it might be desirable to use 64-bit ODBC or other drivers.
"... They ne'er cared for us
yet: suffer us to famish, and their store-houses
crammed with grain; make edicts for usury, to
support usurers; repeal daily any wholesome act
established against the rich, and provide more
piercing statutes daily, to chain up and restrain
the poor. If the wars eat us not up, they will; and
there's all the love they bear us."
-- Shakespeare: Coriolanus, Act 1, scene 1