CPU and core mean the same.
Vultr still feels fast to me; same as it did when I opened this topic.
However, one thing to note: they block mail-related ports by default. This prevents the IP blocks from poisoning. I feel this is what makes Vultr better than the competition.
A simple request via tickets removes the blocks. In doing so you agree to their stringent no-spam policy.
I feel this protects their high speeds that sets them apart from the competition.