I know a racquet that's labelled "long" (1 cm longer, I believe) gives you more power, but what does it sacrifice? I can't really believe that 1cm will make all that much difference in how a racquet plays.
Yes it does make a difference. Extra reach. Harder to swing fast! And heavier! Great for taller people or players with strong swinging arm action - for us lessor human beings, by holding the racket higher up near to the shaft negates the difference.
True, that there is a bit of physics is involed. Depening your sytle of play, the results. For me, it's advatnage (I own Ti SA), with the extra reach and a bit more flex since I am a bit short for my age.