The obvious answer would probably be the size and the dip formfactor. Sure you can get more capable BGA packaged chips, but how many hobbyists have the ability to properly solder in a BGA?
Was available in DIP, was... None of the standard suppliers have them at the moment and I have some doubts they are ever going to be available again, considering the rather limited demand.
It’s also 10 pins longer, so as you point out saving space may be a requirement