Here's an excerpt from Savage 2 FAQ:

What similarities will it share with the original?

The game will be very similar to Savage 1 with:
- Better Graphics
- Better Maps
- More Units (class based)
- Spell casting / special abilities
- New Race introduction / players
- Less Commander Centric (players can build buildings)
- No Peons
- More Battle Strategic & more battle planning with better grouping and more emphasis on officers
- More polish and fit and finish to the entire game and most importantly INTERFACE!
- Melee system will not necessarily be more complex but more fluid with the ability to 'combo'