Other way around.
Smaller sprockets wrap the chain in a tighter bend, losing more energy. So a 36x12 is less efficient than a 51x17, for the same gear ratio.
DA10 may have provided a performance benefit by reducing weight (everything else being equal), but BETAMAX was superior to VHS too.
If anyone mentions the different length of the torque arm from the chainring teeth to the BB spindle axis having a measurable effect I’ll stamp you with the BSNYC seal of disapproval.
Something “seeming” to make a difference is very different to quantifying it. In your (decklus’) case, you have two different bikes, likely with different frame materials, geometry, wheelsets, tyres, cockpit arrangements… Too many variables to assign any difference to the chainring size.