I guess that this doesn't occur on the 13" models then?

I can vouch for my 13" model. It's rock solid, but when the fan does kick in, it sounds like a turbine spinning up. No freezes though, as this is almost definitely the fault of the ATI drivers (which the 13" model doesn't have).

it would seem so even looking at the linked thread, at least I did not notice anyone reporting isues with the 13" models

Brilliant. Been on the look out for something like this for quite a while. Thanks for sharing!