That is quite alright - much of the subject is - er, Subjective.
You make the case - an excellent analogy for direct useable comparison - of course there will be the deviations - some work better whiel others - well, wind up in the trash heap because the proof it not there to sustain the effort to use it.
As in;
It only matters to those that trust in their equipment.
Trust being defined as;
I know the equipment used well enough to understand and utilize it function.
There is nothing less to consider. Cannot? Then you don't trust the equipment as that result...
To the above then;
You can only conclude...
"Use what works for you and your situation. If you want more; then you must place your efforts in making the ideal system, your system, including the mounting, location and what will be used in that system - effectively."
So to ask "Which mobile antenna would you choose for distance?" depends largely upon the ability of the operator to use what works for them - even if it means to compromise.
Meaning;
What could have been used, versus what is being used, may be two different things;
- with the operators own design considerations taking precedence versus the esoteric or performance efficiency
- looks aren't everything,
- as well as physical limitations of the ability to mount and use the system safely
- a 1/2 wave dipole may not survive the next bridge abutment.
Again, heading back to "Use Common Sense"...
