Just to be devil's advocate. I have an 8ton and 2.8t. just as happy in the 2.8t for a day as the 8 ton. The 2.8t gets waaay more use. It depends on jobs of course but the smaller machine fits in places, easy to transport, very frugal on fuel, easier to get in and out of if it's one of those jobs. Have also had a 5 ton. For me it was exactly as you describe- not big enough to do the meaty jobs but still hassle of transport etc- again would take the 2.8t most of the time.
Been in my 1.8t a bit recently. Suddenly realise how much more capable and enjoyable when I jump back in the 2.8t. I don't get that same gratification when going from the 2.8 to 8 ton. Although again some jobs the 2.8t clearly doesn't have the grunt or bulk shifting capacity.