2 S5s are cheaper and 1 is more expensive. The S3 is a pretty light frame and there are 2 ways you achieve that, one is expensive materials and the other is being carefull with how you use those materials.
I think it was Specialized that said that their lightest frame takes so much time to build because the pieces of fabric have to be placed very precisely. They are cut to exact size and have to go just so, to get the overlap correct. The lesser frames are made with oversized fabric pieces so if they aren’t placed as precisely their is still the proper amount of overlap.
Translation: the S3 was a PIA to make, hence the high price.
The base S5s are easier to make–while the high end S5 is a PIA. To eliminate buyer’s choice, eliminate the S3.
I think I am getting it…
Its likely noit so much about eliminating buyers choice as it is eliminating a bike from the line up that wont sell in sufficient numbers. Better to have that equipment, people, materials going towards building the bikes that will be ordered in much greater numbers.