Originally Posted by
RobbieTunes
....I genuinely believe there was no intention to differentiate the frames.
Using the same frame to create multiple models by varying the component spec and cosmetics was a common practice among mass market brands. It allowed companies to hit different price points, while striking a balance between reduced consumer costs and increased profits.
The classic example of doubling up on a frame is the Peugeot AO8 and UO8. Adding a few brazed-on fittings created the AE8 and UE8, so you could even argue that the basic boom era Peugeot frame design performed quadruple duty.