I use the 2012 at home and the 2017 at work. Think I actually prefer it heavier but maybe it's because I also respect my 2012 more after growing to hate my 2017 with 5 stuck keys and return key deadzone so look at this supposed flaw as wanted power and sturdiness rather than unwanted weight.
Plus the lightness is offset by having to carry a dongle and them only shipping the bulky powercord not the short cord in the 2017 which I found an insultingly stingy gesture for a nearly 3K machine.
Yep, I think I would feel the same as you do if my work laptop was a 2017. Work gave me an old laptop, and I was happy with that because I don't have to deal with the touch bar or USB C.
I also share your sense of value about the machines. The 2012 is the last MacBook pro I've paid for myself.
EDIT: I just checked and my work laptop is a mid 2015. It's still much lighter than my personal MBP, but I think this was the last generation before USB c charging and the elimination of ports.
Plus the lightness is offset by having to carry a dongle and them only shipping the bulky powercord not the short cord in the 2017 which I found an insultingly stingy gesture for a nearly 3K machine.