I'm with you on those counts although the leather washer would hinder the 45 a bit, but never by the 150 fps alleged by some American sources. I assume the 34 has slightly longer stroke.
The RWS version does provide a different shooting experience by virtue of its very different stock. Many would probably prefer it for use with a scope. Not many people found out though.
It is indeed unusual to see one dated after 82. Most are 79 to 81. The HW80 hurt it. I prefer the 45 though, despite having a lot of miles under my belt with both guns.