General question about Mac hardware

Hello. I have always used Windows. I am considering picking up a used Macbook. I have some questions about hardware. Chiefly, is there a specific reason that Apple is still dedicated to the Core2Duo processors, even in the highest-end Pros? With the advent of the Intel Core i3, i5 and i7 processors, many PC laptop manufacturers have embraced them, especially the better mainstream manufacturers, like Sony and Toshiba. I know a lot about Windows, but I don't know much about OSX.
Is there something in the software that allows for a Core2Duo on OSX to run as efficiently or more so than an i3 or i5 on Windows 7? As it stands, comparing strict hardware profiles (processors in particular) between what appear to be equivalent current Macbooks and Windows 7 PCs, the Sonys and Toshibas seem to have a distinct advantage.
Sorry if this is a tired question or whatever. Believe me, I'm not asking "WHAT'S BETTER? A MAC OR A PC?" Really.
Many thanks to anyone who can point me to an answer.
Chris

Well, as to if there is anything that makes OS X run better on the C2D rather than a i3 or i5. I have never use an i3 based computer, but the i5 mac I used was very fast (tried the i5 27" iMac). I don't know why they are currently still using the C2D over that. I can say that the i5 didn't feel any faster, even the quad core Mac pro didn't feel faster. The main advantage to more cores will be in doing more at once. This makes the biggest difference is seen when running things like video editors. There is also a lot more to making the computer fast than just the CPU, the chipset, system bus, video card, and hardware controllers all make a huge difference. Apple has always used very good quality hardware, there have even been times where MacBook Pros have been rated as the best laptops to run Windows. But OS X will run faster on the same hardware because it is a more streamlined OS that uses the hardware more efficiently. Apple works hard to make the OS work as well as it looks, and Snow Leopard runs very well on the current hardware. I have no doubt that Apple will in the near future come out with something newer and better, but my guess is as good as anyone's as to what chip they will use.

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