As far as it goes though, most of CP (the rides) has been constructed in the last 31 years, so in that regard it is a very fair comparison.
You are entirely correct about that. The only thing you have to keep in mind is that while CP was already established in 1972, PKI had just finalized their contracts and things like that. You know, basic startup costs. I'm sure just getting the park started was a distraction from trying to make the park better.
Obviously, if they really wanted to, they could have towering rollercoasters like CP, but it's a matter of approach.
Oh yeah, and people quit fighting!