Actually, they are kinda one idea with 2 sides, like the sides of the same coin
First, make some powerful equipment that any newcomer can use. This process has already started with the bonus packs, just have to go the same direction, add different levels of weapons/armors/HKs/mining tools and put on the price tags according to the levels and number of repairs.
All the stuff is limited and wears off eventually, so if the price tag is heavy these things won't be used most of the time, only in special occasions (prolly only when mining/trading in lootable PvP).Historically there's 2 big generations of players, old time ubers and new players - this would give access and taste of the whole game to all, and at the same time it helps to level down the huge differences in skills. Even if it's only a temporary "boost", it might give the motivation to skill up and reach those higher levels that for a newcomer's perspective seem to be light-years away... 
Second, make a special area where most equipment won't work. No armors, only HK-A1, only melee weapons up to, say, Xayerim Tari. Even better, make some small pistols, also capped to pretty low-power models - that would use new professions where everyone is much closer to each other. Old-timers will only have the advantage of higher HP and better avoids, and everyone can see what others are without their uber equipment.
Could be a separate area outside map, either like instance or like separate server and it could have a backstory that takes players into the time right after the Big Catastrophe or to an area where the mankurts live and everything's still like it was right after the catastrophe.
