Bike selection is about fit and personal preference. Here on BF they tend to want absolute performance over anything else. If the Felt fits you and is in your price range buy it. A poor fitting bike you will not ride for long. Unless you racing, the higher groups and lighter weight will not matter much.

My Trek 2.1 is not the lightest and has Tiagra driveline and I have not had problems keeping pace on fast group rides. The most important difference is the engine. Good Luck.