If it isn't a big difference, WHY DO IT? This is what spurs the whole fragmentation arguement. Instead of simply making the next release of Android OS work for the hardware components, the OEMs have to make their bloat work over the new Android OS. This is why there isn't a single CDMA phone running a skinned version of Android that has been upgraded to ICS without using a custom ROM. This is the biggest reason for people preferring a AOSP build to go with a Nexus device. Granted, the hardware components are currently 6 months more advanced than what was used to build the Nexus, and given the way technology is growing at an exponential rate, it is a big improvement, but if you are always waiting for technology, you will be waiting a long time. Sooner or later, you need to hop on the train.
Now, to put on my moderator hat,
This thread has CLEARLY gone from "name the strongpoints of the Nexus and LTE EVO" into "bash the phone model that you aren't in favor of" and if it doesn't go back to that, it will be closed.