I beleve you're right, but I have never noticed any slowing down except while loading a project. Do you have an example file for me?
Seems my projects are not detailed enough... [:-?]
You're also right about your 3 examples, if I have the possibility to choice the middle one I would do so. But what's the difference in file size between 2 and 3? Is it worth to invest more time in this model? This is another question of balance...