As always it depends what you value. Status can certainly change things as you get generally book the bulkhead, or get MCE on AA. Im surprised about the OPs comments on space though, as AA is now a 10 across operation all their 777s. Upstairs on a BA380 is an all-round better proposition.

MCE is a good perk on AA, and I like the individual air vents.

The food is much of a muchness; AA dispense large sodas but are a bit mean with liquor (having said that I didn't pay last time and I'm not sure why).

Overall now I just pick the best price and schedule and don't really mind either, whereas I'd avoid AA until recently. But I don't know how one could conclude either to be a "Far better Airline" over the other.