I remember the hardcore experience from good ol' Diablo II, but I doubt I'd play it in CoH. However, as defeat have negligible consequences in this game, I consider adding some sort of consequence if I get defeated:
My first though was to put character out of commission for say one week (when he or she recovers from injuries), but that would interfere with team play if getting defeated in a mission. So a better option that would not affect team members nor my own social experience is to turn XP off for a week, and switch to a designated costume slot with bruises and shredded clothes. And only carry awakens when playing in teams :)