Thanks for the great post with excellent comparisons.
I also have owned both 12 and 14 at the same time.
I have recently sold the 14 as I didn't feel the need to keep 2 units that would do an equally excellent job.
The crunch for me was loading/unloading.
The 12 is just that bit lighter and easier for me to deal with.
I'm getting older, slower, weaker and dumber I think
I only fish near shore (half mile) usually. Also lakes.
The 14 is definately more stable, though I don't have an issue with the 12 as I don't stand up at all if I can help it as I suffer a bit from dizziness
I find the 12 more nimble which is a great advantage when going back over interesting ground, returning to a mark or altering boat position while bring fish up on my correct landing side.
Rod storage is no problem as I only take out 3 at any one time, one for trolling, mounted to starboard, bottom rod/rig in holder on port side and one spare.
I have reduced the amount of gear taken out with the 12, though by only a small margin. I actually prefer the "less is more" approach.
It's very easy to load half your "worldly" possessions on a 14, but really, there is no need.
I think the larger forward hatch size on the 14 is very important if you are into catching big fish and have to store them. Having said that, additional weight up front has a negative effect on handling. I would prefer a more central catch store/kill tank in any craft if design and dimensions permitted.
I totally agree with pretty much all you have said, especially the stand up fishing process.
As for speed. I don't consider that an issue at all. I'm there to fish, not race.
I love the PA's. They are truly the best fishing platforms around at this stage.
Cheers from Rod in Hobart, Tasmania.