Originally posted by reh321 If I understand your suggestion above, the resulting camera would still have roughly the same size as the K-70, in which case it would be quite a bit larger than the M5 {which is a nice camera}. If Pentax does decide to experiment with MILC, modifying a K-70 would be a good place to start, since it already has a PDAF-compliant sensor.
The flange distance will be the same of course, but even within Pentax's history, they have made K-mount DSLRs that are significantly smaller and lighter then the the K-70, such as the Km, Kx and Kr. The Nikon D3500 is an F-mount camera that weighs less than 400g. It can be done, and removing the heavy prism with a lighter EVF, eliminating the need for an AF sensor, metering sensor and mirror mechanism could be a way to achieve this.
I simply can't agree with Kunzite that EOS M buyers are buying a sub-standard product just because of the brand name. The brand and advertising will get the product noticed, but people aren't so stupid that they will buy something they don't want. EOS M is the right size and right design for people who a meaningful step up from a smartphone, but not something that is too big or complicated to use. I have to admit that I have been quite tempted by an EOS M body, the kit zooms and the 22mm lens as a travel kit.
Don't worry, though! Anyone who doesn't like the my idea for Pentax can sleep safe in the knowledge that this cheap, mirrorless abomination is only a figment of my imagination.