In general BF3 vehicles take more skill to use or are designed/work a lot better. As you said they control better. I think specializations are a good idea for vehicles but having them as unlocks is bad. Specs enable fun and interesting variation such as difference between lmg/hmg/canister shell on tanks. The issues arise when some specs are just so much better than others and required to compete such as afpds round on LAV, ECM and TV missile on Heli.
Main issue in general with BF3 vehicle warfare is lock on. A better mechanic is needed, however that isnt easy to design.
Main issue in general with BF3 vehicle warfare is lock on. A better mechanic is needed, however that isnt easy to design.