For follow-up discussion and general commentary on the topic. Comments are sorted chronologically.
Many people have died on crosses in history. All suffered. However, Jesus did suffer for our sins. But, the victory here is the resurrection. To me, an empty cross signifies Christ's victory over the cross and death to be resurrected and empowered to forgive our sins. Therefore, I would think an empty cross is more symbolic of the overall Christian faith.
It tends to focus on a dead Jesus but not on his resurrection; we tend to lose sight of the new life we have in Christ through his resurrection and ascension, and looking forward to his return.