Performance vs. stock Ignition Coil......?

Yes you can keep the stock distributor. However a set of igntion wires (spark plug wires) of the thinner type (used in racing) would be a big advantage. The thinner wires have less resistance in them thereby delivering a stronger current. Another problem that can occur with the hotter coil is that ignition wire or wires sometimes can burn through causing a short and a dead cylinder.