Yup, for my money the Zero is the way to go.
Used a powered USB hub on the back for Pi Power and expansion.
http://imgur.com/a/xF61M

Started my PiDP8 project from the simH end, built up a Pi Zero and got it
self-booting into simH 4.0 using directions found on the PiDP8 web site and
the Google Group.  What's nice about the Pi Zero is that one can get enough
power right off the display to power USB keyboard and wireless dongles, to
make it easier to download whatever files I want.  I added a 2.54 mm 40-pin
connector to attach to the soon-to-be-completed PiDP box.

http://vintagecomputer.net/pictures/2016/PiDP8/

I started with the original Raspberry Pi, but quickly learned you can't use
this model, it does not have a 40 pin connector.  The RPi Zero does not
come with a connector installed, you have to add it yourself but the
advantage is that it is smaller and uses less power.  I believe I will be
able to run power and serial connection through the one port too.

Bill