will running a 18 timing which is within factory specs ALWAYS be better than stock 16? i mean is it guaranteed extra power down below and even more with tuning?

what do you guys run on a bone stock itr?

 

It really depends on the application/compression ratio/ecu etc.
There is no real answer to your question.

The ideal solution is to sync your distributor to your engine management's (ecu) ignition tables & tune the car via the management system's adjustable ignition tables etc.