If information isn't found in the L1 cache it searching efficiently in the L2 cache is required. This is mainly because the new core has improved write allocation. The next step is to look at the Level 2 cache. What also varies is the speed of the L2 cache. Intel Pentium II systems are all equipped with 512kB L2 cache running at half CPU speed.
Question is what is more efficient.
For the Quake II test a Diamond Monster II 12MB card was also used. Both systems were again running Windows 98 with DirectX 6 and G200 drivers 4.26. Figure 2, Speed vs Size - Winstone. So big is beautiful, but not the only important factor. The Celeron with its fast 128kB keeps up with its bigger brother offering better value for money for most situations.