1988 90q performance variations

[KSMITH1@mailgw.sanders.lockheed.com]

I have recently driven a 1988 90q 5 speed, 10V (of course), that is 
effectively (and apparently) identical to mine, in equipment and 
mileage  It seems peppier (freer and faster revving), on both part and 
full throttle.  I use premium unleaded gas.  My O2 sensor and fuel 
pump were recently changed, and air filter last fall.  My car does not 
manifest any of the obvious signs of catalytic converter gagging.  My 
understanding is that the ignition timing is computer controlled and 
thus presumably the same for each car.  Is this true?  Is there a 
knock sensor that could be defective and improperly retarding the 
spark?  The dark look of my exhaust pipe would suggest I'm not running 
lean, in general.  I haven't yet done a compression test.  Is there 
anything in particular I should look for?

Thanks in advance

***                 ...Kirby    (Kirby A. Smith)                 ***
***              ksmith1@mailgw.sanders.lockheed.com             ***
***              [=]   kirby.a.smith@lmco.com                    ***
***  Opinions expressed herein are entirely those of the author. ***