Generally, you only notice performance increases when the system specs are below the maximum usage of the software. -> the i7 is above the threshold to play CC. If you ramp up (or more, down) the deltatime, you'll start to see differences between a minimal *nix install and just about any other modern OS, but as you said, it's not noticable on vanilla CC, nor necessary.

Have a look at this: http://wiki.winehq.org/ARM