Which Mac Mini to Use as a Server?

Hello Everyone,
I have researched this but have not been able to find the answer I have been looking for as it relates to recent hardware and/or message posts.
I want to set up a Mac Mini as a server to be used mainly for file storage with an external hard drive between 4 other Macs and a couple PCs, then have the files uploaded to a service such as CrashPlan for offsite backup. Also, I want to use it with VPN to access my files remotely. I don't plan to use it for anything else but that. My question is, concerning my needs, can I get by with the dual-core model or should I go with the quad-core or server model? The dual-core is $200 or $400 cheaper which I can use for other hardware, such as the external hard drive.
Has anyone had experience with both to compare the performance and such?
Has anyone used the Mac Mini for the same purpose I plan to use one for?
What problems have you encountered?
What are some things to be aware of?
Do you have any other suggestions for this plan?
Please don't be bashful. I need to hear the good, the bad, and the ugly. Your comments are greatly appreciated and will help me make an informed decision.
Many thanks to everyone for your help!!!
God bless you all!!!
Puterdood.

You shouldn't need anything more than the base i5 model ($599). The RAM is sufficient for your usage also. You don't need to spend the money on a Mac Mini Server.
I currently have a late-2012 i5 base model with 4GB of RAM running OS X Mavericks and OS X Server 3.0.2. It works really well and with Maverick's memory management (memory compression), the 4GB of RAM is like having 6GB. I'm running the DNS, Profile Manager, File Sharing, Time Machine Backup, VPN and Open Directory services. It's a home server. I also added a 128GB SSD which I put OS X Mavericks, OS X Server, Apps and User accounts on. I use the stock 500GB HDD for data storage and file sharing.

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