This is all about ''performance'' as per the POH. What differenece does a couple of hundred feet make, if, you have not calculated your t/o run, your 50' clearance etc etc, then it just makes a BIGGER HOLE IF IT GOES PEAR SHAPED.
I do not understand your reference to 'older' aircraft. What you are talking about is height over a perceived risk/danger????
Most airfields have an issue like this
