I'd say compression has alot to do with it. My 216 is so worn I can easily turn it by hand with the plugs in.
Cold start needs max choke and the throttle held at mid position (around 1100 rpm).
Warm start requires the one foot boogie i.e trans in neutral, parking brake set and the right toe hitting the stomp starter with the right heel holding the throttle at WOT. If it doesn't catch I slowly allow the throttle to start closing while hitting the starter. So far it's the ticket to get started.
My brand new rebuilt 235, still on the run stand, fires right off cold, warm or hot. Single or dual carbs.
