I think your getting close here. I have stated in the past that the honeymoon of getting a new plane clouds objectivity. I have even done it to myself, so don't think I'm pointing fingers here.
We (many) get so high on our latest baby that we get tunnel vision and ignore/justify the planes blemishes and flaws.
We end up rebuilding the landing gear mounts, engine box, correcting incidence problems, re-engineering cabane mounts all in the name of all ARFs need this, so why is mine any different?
I have also said in the past that we should hold off on our flight reviews until the 25th flight. Believe me when I tell you I suffer from the same curse, I have done it time and time again.
Several things consistently help me to make up my mind when considering a new plane, video being one of the best ways to determine how a plane actually flys. BUT, the pilot should be considered as well...if it's Chip, QueQue, McConville or other greats I'll wait untill John Q Modeler gets it in his hands. Then there is the RCU forums...user reviews complete with photos..they help, too.
I fly a DA~50 17lb 28% WITH A 1380 sq in wing. My plane tracks great, flys 'big' and is light on the sticks. It has unlimited vertical. It punches out of a hover with great authority. I completely love it in every way.
I now have 185 flights on it.
Do I think it, (or ANY) would preform as great for my style of flying 5lbs heavier?
Not a chance.
4 lbs?
Nope.
3 lbs?
Not hardly.
One more thing. I have from time to time landed 'heavy'. You know the kind, a drop from a foot high on a Oh *****e what was I thinkin' type landing. Misjudged the length on a visiting field, running over by a few feet into the rough, and over a berm.
Damage, none thankfully, save a loosened wheelpant.
Would I have been as 'lucky' at 5 lbs heavier?
Dunno.
Experience tells me probably not.
Can you overcome a 5lb weight penalty with a larger engine?
Sure, but at what cost?
Battle of weight VS power, ad nausea-um.
Sorry for the diatribe, just my thoughts.....