Or more specifically, does it matter on a ship that is as maneuverable as the Hatchet?
I would suggest that making such a vessel 50% larger might make a slight difference. At least it would exaggerate the side profile of the ship, whilst keeping the slim front profile.
Personally, the visual amenity of the ship, any ship, is very important too. People may or may not think the small size of the ship is a cause of any perceived imbalance - but at the very least it looks odd.
Oh, and just because it is Vanilla - doesn't mean it was done to the highest quality standards...