Somebody explain to me why I am bothering with this
Yes, the science return would be enhanced if they had planned the mission using a polar orbit.
To use a polar orbit would have entailed using a more powerful booster.
A more powerful booster would have cost more money.
I think you are using the word INADEQUATE [caps yours] as a perjorative. Let me be clear: I love Mars Express and hope for its brilliant success. I am in awe of the Russian's space accomplishments.
What I find INADEQUATE is your rabble-rousing, short-sighted analysis.