You have the answer.
I posted on several Web sites - and some one on one of the other sites suggested I check "Enhanced SpeedStep Technology" and that I disable it. That wasn't the answer - but when I put it in the search, I was able to view a file on tuning (Increasing efficiency) for laptops. The first suggestions was to check the power options.
I did, then changed them, rebooted and ran the tests again. That is the Solution.
I don't, however, understand why it kicked in when the computer was plugged in.
I consider that a bug
Also a 50% reduction in speed seems excessive.
When the computer is running on battery, we only have about an hour+ use before the battery dies (On power saver). I wonder what how much time we will have on the new settings.