I see your point better now....

But the Seleucids where in deep internal trouble when its battles with Rome came around, and so was Macedonia before them. The Aeudi/Arverni were even wrost.

I don't know about the others though, my history doesn't go that far.

Now.... I think what your trying to get will be better addressed in EB2 since MTWII has some new features about recruitment that limit the number of elites. (at least thats what I read, I haven't played the game yet)