TM Moot
King
Also, you have to take into account the Civ as a whole, IMHO. Russia has one of the best (IMHO) unique abilities -- you are going to get resources in your civ at some point or get wiped out -- and when you do, you get bonus production and units. Having a moderately better unique unit is ok for them. Also look at their other unique item -- Barracks, available at the beginning (if it's like other civs...or at least available pretty darn early). So, as a whole, I think Russia looks pretty darn formidable.
you are totally right about looking at the whole package, rather then just comparing UU v UU..
and i also agree that the Russians are looking pretty strong,
UA - extra production and extra units
UB - stronger units and bigger cities
UU - decent mid game boost
once i get my mandatory Roman first game out of the way, i am definitely giving the russians a go..