The folks that i talked to said that the concrete patios can be made to
match any finish - eg: the basketweave brick pattern that we liked a
lot. If this could be achieved, would it look as good as a brick patio
? The price diff is huge. Would concrete patio stand up to the new
england winter ?

If it's done right, of course concrete can take a NE winter. Just look
at all the concrete buildings, bridges, ramps, etc. They aren't
falling down.

As to how stamped concrete looks vs pavers, you should call some
companies that do stamped concrete and go see what it looks like. Many
times they can give you commercial sites they did that you can easily
see. You've probably looked at stamped concrete hundreds of times and
never even realized what it was.

Also, I'd be careful with the price. I think right now you are
comparing std concrete to pavers. Stamped costs more, because there
is more material and labor involved. Stamped concrete also requires
some maintenance. It needs to be sealed every 2 years or so to keep
the finish looking sharp. Otherwise, it takes on a weathered look.

If you really like a particular paver look, you may be better off going
with that. If you like some of the stone type looks that stamped
concrete can take on, then that may be a better choice.