Ahhh, depends how you use the clutch and how it's run in, but I'm sure the petrol can be driven to be as good if not better. The one single problem with the diesel is the turbo, and the lag, once thats spooled up, then it is quicker, however it has to spool up first, if your quick on the gears and can drop the clutch just right, then it'll be too close to call, especially if you don't use the clutch.
Tom