well -that's the general idea but appearance is a tricky thing -many of the current pattern planes simply have no rhythm of line - -sorta like some of the new cars --
basically on the smaller pattern stuf (foam) - it easily is demonstrated tha lots of side area is a big plus --but - go up to 40+ % model and at that size, you don't need relatively as much lateral area - has to do with scale effect.
Ihave bult lots of stuff in the entire size range - 5 oz to 40 pounds
The overall size rally makes a difference
Power is another odd one
as the plane gets larger-- it is easier to have a light enough wing loading - but harder to have enough power loading
The 40 gas powred 11 lb setups so far is closest to a really good combo - at about 1-- 1200 squares
this allows a 22" prop that will provide lots of thrust at any speed
The big glow stuf is still popular but I don't really expect to see it remain on top -
the rules need only a tiny tip one way or the other to slide the advantage to electric -or larger displacement gas setups.
just my take on it