Dual-core processors - more performance with lower clockspeed?

Dual-core processors from Intel are likely to improve overall performance without cranking up clock speeds. In some tests performed by Personal Computer World the dual-core Pentium Extreme Edition 3.2GHz scores up to 37 percent higher than a 3.7GHz single-core counterpart.

The scores were recorded under the PCMark 04 benchmark suite of multi-threaded and single-threaded tests. When running single-threaded code, the dual-core chip was slower as it could use only one core and the lower clock speed counted against it.

However running at a lower clockspeeds causes less power consumption and thus also less heat. Dual-core desktop processors for mainstream users, the Pentium D, will be launched later this quarter. The price of the Pentium D isn't available yet but some sources suggest it to be only a little bit higher than comparable single-core Pentium 4 processors.

More info at VNU Net