it seems this question comes up ALOT in the forum... it seems to me there is more demand that you may think for this data. I know I have chimed in before
I understand wanting to keep it simple and not wanting to alienate others, but you are somewhat alienating those that WANT these features. Honestly I would most likley visit the site more, as I don't use the compare function at all, as the data is irrelevant and no comparative.
Perhaps you could add an "advanced specs" tab that is initially unexpanded. This would allow users who just want to input barebones info to do so, but for the many many people that want more detailed info, they could simply expand the option and choose away. The same goes for the research section. Start with all the models lumped together, then let us refine if we desire.