I completely disagree. I had one of the brushed velvet T-handles and it was a definite 10+ hp advantage over the "8-ball" that came with the car. I can prove it.
Do not forget flipping the air cleaner lid for that 'Buh-WAHH' sound to intimidate and strike fear into your enemy when running the stock Thermoquad. This is better than horsepower because it makes the enemy afraid of you.