IIRC the correct sequence is to switch on the fuel pumps to pressurize the feeder lines first, then push the handpump 10 times in order to inject fuel into the manifold. So I don't think it's that.
That's it. You just can't compare modern conurbation with anything from the 40's, France or elsewhere. The overall amount of lighting was much, much less back then.
Hey, I KNOW it's off somewhat. Just found an adequate solution myself when I did that. And I'm pretty sure it'll get better later anyway. It's a beta, isn't it?