[texhax] class file vs style file

[Brian Papa]

In developing a template for a journal article, I'm wondering if there 
is a significant advantage to creating an entirely new class file as 
opposed to using the existing article.cls and then making any necessary 
modifications though the .sty file? The general consensus seems to be to 
create a new class file, but I guess I have not found a good explanation 
of why this is particularly advantageous.  Perhaps is just easier and 
more efficient to create the new class file? Any information you can 
provide is appreciated.

Thanks,
Brian Papa