It is very interesting that you say this. I actually just finished writing a review for Ep 5 on this site (see review here) and came to the same conclusion pretty much as you, with one caveat. Episode 4 is its equal in the sense that Ep 4 is the original story arc; however, in terms of actual plot and character development, Ep 5 is its superior. I say this because Han and Leia’s relationship is just developed so well in Ep 5 – and in general the acting is exceptional. In addition, Darth Vader is more ominous and threatening in Ep 5 which was an improvement compared to Ep 4. Luke’s development as a Jedi in training and the introduction of such an unassuming character as Yoda was also very brilliant.
There are also some very iconic and significant scenes that show how well the film was really written including the unique idea of freezing Han Solo in carbonite as a testing method to capture Luke, and of course the massive reveal and plot twist that Darth Vader is in fact Luke’s father. The balance of comedy and intense/serious scenes also is very well done, and the list goes on and on.