After reading and absorbing all the posts (that is the big change from my last post).
I have a much better understanding of "penetration".
Thanks to all.

Note: I just returned from flying and handling the variable wind conditions addressed here.
For fun and added challenge during the last two years I have switched from Glow/Gas to electric.
Interesting to learn the new parameters of flying.

I also have gone a LOT smaller, 500 to 700 squares with an AUW of 60oz.

The 'penetration' question came from flying two designs by E-flite under "heavy" wind conditions. Heavy = I was the only one flying.
One design was the Patternish Diamante (spent the best part of 49 years in that specialty).
The other was the Eratix. A boxy 3D design with light wing loading (12.3oz on 700 sq. in.)

Power systems were identical I.E. E-flite 32, A123 x 2300 x5S,CC Phopenix 60, even the weight for the two models turned out the same, 60oz.
In strong and variable crosswinds I expected the much faster Diamante to settle in for landing much better than the Eratix.
Not so !
The Eratix was a joy with which to do touch and go's. Even with the pronounced and variable crosswinds.
The Diamante was a hand full. Yes it could do them, but with a lot of effort from the pilot.

Airborne the opposite was true. (Pattern maneuvers). There the Diamante was at home while the Eratix struggled. Airborne the winds were not variable but steady.

That prompted the thought process which produced the question.