Personally, I prefer TC1 because I really enjoyed the story mode. Also, I got to enjoy raod racing unlike in TC2 where mostly air and water racing dominate. The only thing I would say I prefer in TC2, is graphics.
If you prefer to keep things on the road, then you should definitely go for The Crew. But If you are a free spirit like me and want to try something a little bit unorthodox, then The Crew 2 is your game.