Hi,
there is a quantum leap with calculations ability, comparing the Super Nova and one of the H8 successors (here, the Emerald Classic):
Consolation for the little Super Nova: it prevails as far as strategy is concerned (so yes, better chess knowledge...)
According to my estimation, the Emerald H8 (10Mhz, as 20/2) is roughly twice faster than the 6301Y of the Super Nova. Of course, as less chess knowledge appears to be used, the evaluation function is expected to be faster by itself (irrespective of the MCU speed); both factors result in more NPS for the Emerald.
MfG,
Eric