I agree. Pattern ships definitely fly much better than a scale model. A well set up pattern ship is a joy to fly and will improve your flying skills.
As for being expensive, well i can't argue with that in regards to the Oxai's etc. But there are much cheaper planes out there to cater for all price ranges.
Also you can pick up a used plane from a top flyer when he upgrades to the latest ship for a very reasonable price and alot of the times you only have to add a Rx.