Addition of extra RAM makes it run faster. How faster. Let me guess:+256Mb=+2.56fps; +512Mb=+5.12 fps. LOL
P.S.: Thanks for the post. It is really better to see once than hear 100 times.
I agree it is a bad flash. And you can not extract it to try to reflash BIOS using another computer which is possible in case of Desktops. So you have to replace laptop's motherboard to get a new BIOS.
It is not enough information to suggest anything.
1. Software problem.
a) Viruses - you know what to do
b) Drivers, progs etc - try to start Windows in minimum configuration (like Safe Start?) to see if there is a difference....