I would rather call it a challenge instead of a problem.
Just like you, my system isn’t really top-notch so I dealed living with lower settings.
i7, 1650 Q-max, 12GB RAM, 1 TB SSD, in a Lenovo Ideapad @ 1920x1080.
Not a single CTD and the only crashes I experience are when I overstress the bird in aerobatics attempts ( getter better the more I practice unusual altitudes)
So, the answer is: You’re not crazy but you’d better lower your expectations regarding your rig against the in game results.
If that is unacceptable to you, you have to upgrade your machine ( which comes with a price)
Happy 