The reason to have 3 points (E3 diamond fire), 4 points (Bosch Platinum +4), etc. is that when one electrode fails, fouls, etc. then there's another electrode to ground to to provide spark. Platinum is a better metal for conductivity than copper the most common core of spark plugs. Electricity goes to path of least resistance. This in conjunction with the differing amounts of electrodes is what allows for 100,000 mi intervals which is the main reason for using the higher end plugs.

Now there are ignition units out there (MSD is a big vendor) for upgraded spark voltages. When raising compression ratios the spark voltages need to be increased as well or your voltage stays the same but spark duration decreases with the increased resistance (combustion chamber pressure), resulting is lots of unburnt fuel in the cylinder.

Hope this helps a little



Justin