I can hear the rapid hand rubbing of many sale guys saying, "we did well, sales will spike!".

Likely 95% is the nut begind the stick. But a sales guy is banking on, "so and so did well as others, this is the poop, go buy one, we'll make a deal.....".
It is still mostly the nut behind the stick.

For Kawa and others, no, I do not consider you nuts.....it's a euphemism.

Heck, in the western US, maybe fly with Ramy and beat him many days, then decide.
US east coast, go beat Karl or SM on ridges....along with others.

No, not slighting anyone, but go beat good in your region all the time, THEN compare ships.
I have beaten some good in the east a day or two, never a contest.

If you're in the 95% or so of your nation for national tanking, yep, maybe the ship matters.

Better yet, go fly a club class nationals and tromp, then ask about ships for other classes.

Harsh?
Likely.
Realistic?
Likely.