Initially my start was getting a bit sloppy and I was supecting cap/rotor but now I am getting funny noises from the fuel pumps.

Always change in pairs?

Any comments on the quality aspects of all the different brands?

Bosch? Beck Arney? Pierburg (German)? Meyle?

Thanks.

always in pairs, because they are the same age. always bosch because the other brands don't have the guts to keep up with the demands, pressure or volume. remember, those cars USED to have just 1 pump. high demand, indeed. change the filter, also. good luck, chuck.