I have seen good results using the xeon 1366 chips so yours would be about the same. I would say upgrade to a single 980 and see what that gets you. What resolution are you planning on running?
You could use your right hand on the cyclic and left hand for the collective like every helicopter pilot in the world or find another method to have a collective on the right.
I really wish Some one would make a decent mfid. I know there is the cougar, but I would love a touch panel included. The more I can actually touch means less keyboard or mouse click.