I do believe that was the or at least one big reason for her. She liked me, but she was afraid she‘d be made fun of. But she wouldn‘t have been if I were an 8, no matter my age. But yes, with that I implicitly agree with you that - had it not been for the age difference - my looks might have sufficed.
I tell you my friend a girl my age goes out with a 36 year old even if he is a solid 10 her friends would her sh*t.
As I said I think your are idealizing the 8+ old guy.