IMHO the bigger models have some major advantages and disadvantages too.
Obviously the larger, the more expensive.
Thats applies to replacement parts too.
Bigger models seem to less prone to wind and more stable.
Smaller models are easier to set-up, fix and maintain.
orientation is much easier with the bigger models and predicting their behaviour.
IF you can afford it, I go with a larger sized model.
IF your not confident and foresee a few crashes and repaires, go small.
As for the model lasting. They're equally as good.
Some parts need replacing such as feathering shafts and bearings, but generally these models will keep flying for as long as you need.
I have a large Robbe mosquito petrol that still flies today and its nearly 20yrs old.