the car is equipped with a rev limiter that works when the car is in park or neutral.
however,i have experienced the same symptoms as larry delor when the car was last on the road in the early fall. there was hesitation in acceleration when the engine was under load. i hope to have the car back on the road for summer - i still plan to change out the fuel filter and check the ignition wires, too.
thanks to all those who responded - i will let you know how things go when she's back on the road.