Low compression ignition timing considerations...

Just curious, would a low compression smog motor need more mechanical timing to maximize power? I know that 38* is the best baseline for most big block mopars, but what about on late model 400's or 440's that have about 8:1 compression?

Seems to me that the flame front would travel slower with the lower compression (or would it travel faster??) and 40* or more degrees may be better. Also, would low octane fuel be better for these engines since it burns faster??

Gonna be a while til I can afford to stroke my 400 out to 470 so for now I'm just trying to turn my lemon into lemonade. Thanks!