Is this 3DMark06 score accurate for my 8500GT 256mb gddr3 vs 8600GT 512mb gddr2 comparison?

Question

I had lots of free time today and wanted to play around with the 3dmark06 and this is what i got.

8500gt 256mb gddr3

Stock 520mhz core 1400mhz vram score 3090

OC 710mhz core 1904mhz vram score 4082

8600gt 512mb gddr2

Stock 540mhz core 800mhz vram score 3867

OC 660mhz core 800mhz vram score 4145

Is this normal for a generic 8600 to pwn! a good 8500?

Or is it just the 16 stream processors vs 32 stream processors.

Dont tell me to get a diferent card im real happy with my new 8600 every game runs smooth. When i need a new card id get a 9800.

Thanks

Answer 1

Well to me it looks like the extra memory (even though technically slower) on the 8600gt gives it the edge. The extra 256 lets it store that much more so even though it doesnt transport as quick, gddr2 vs. gddr3, it holds more info.

Though the higher amount of stream processes could help.