What is an "EQ 9626 SA " stamped carb exatly?

RRR,
I have an original 1980 Carter Catalog which has a one page feature on these carbs.
Nowhere is the word 'Competition' used. I have heard that later models had the plate added across the air horn, probably for 'sales'.
Says this:
'The 9501 & 9626 are emission calibrated & certified for emission on a 1971 383 engine with stock Chrysler manifold, factory dual exh & auto trans'.
Happy to email this page if you PM an email address.

The Comp Series 4XXX carbs did not have an auto choke, some had a manual choke & the 500 & 750 version was available without a choke. The 750, #4762, without choke had richer sec jets & richer rods.
What you seem to be missing is, these are not factory carburetors like you are referring to. They were aftermarket carburetors available through Summit and local speed shops. Edelbrock bought the rights and still makes the same basic carburetor today. I've even had some really early Edelbrocks that still had the 9636 Carter number, instead of the 1405 or 1406.