I disagree, but that is entirely subjective.
You’re ignoring the huge difference in display, one of the biggest differences between the phones.
And the OIS of the telephoto lens on the back, which is a huge boon for those of us that take lots of pics.
And the faster touch sensor refresh rate on the screen.
And the easier to hold form factor.
And the significantly increased durability (watch everythingapplepro’s drop test vs the 8).
And the ability to do portrait mode shots with the front camera.
And the neural network engine on chip.
Other than that it’s got some internal similarities with the 8 Plus, sure.