my 250 starts up everytime...i pump it 2 or 3, hit the key, and if it doesn't fire right away, usual 1 or 2 more pumps gets the beast talking. is it slower then newer cars? (both starting and speed)...probably, but ya know...thats ok. lol
O, and manual choke is the way. i don't like tempermental little black boxes controlling my life..haha
SamWise

1967 Chevy II, 2-door post.
250, 3-OTT.

1969 GMC 1/2-ton.
307, 3-OTT.
DD.