So, ladies and gents, final verdict ? Just gap and torque right and that's it or is the indexing a real factor or insignificant(as long as oem plugs are used)

there is no data to convincingly prove one way or another, here's what I've done and keep doing:

- OEM plugs gapped stock (on all my tune files)
:: 93, 100, e40, stock ::
- torqued to 23nm without excessive concern for indexed to perfection
- replace coils and plugs every 5k miles
- drive and enjoy this amazing toy

Whoa... this opened another can, replace coils and plugs every 5k ??? That's a significant expense ! Now, for the stocks out there and mostly stage one guys, I've read here that 10k miles plugs only is sufficient. Does stage one really chew through plugs aaannd coils that quick ? or this is just for prevention and peace of mind ?

peace of mind - the significance of the expense is up to the owner, for me it's a non issue. All it can take it one bad misfire and I'm hedging my bets. Here's the best part, to each their own.