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Does OSX Tiger have backup software that will backup to the superdrive?

No. But watch the WWDC keynote on apple's web site to see what Apple has in store for backing up. AFAIK it still won't work with the superdrive.
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I will up the RAM to 1GB anyway, but will I see much difference in performance if I max it out to 2GB...

If you're going to run Parallels, buy as much memory as you can afford.
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Will the speed difference between the two processors be noticeable given the usage profile above?

I doubt it would make a huge difference. It's certainly an incremental difference, not huge like the solo/duo difference. Of course, IIRC you can't get the super drive without getting the upgraded processor.

Matthew