With some decent throttle control having esp off could make a difference. Whereas u've got ur foot planted and the esp is holding ur power back (slowing ur acceleration) he could be on the limits of grip getting the power down better than u.
Try this next time ur out, if u let ur clutch out quickly (in first off the line) at low revs u'll find the car feels limited in the amount of power it gives u off the line. Stop and then try holding the clutch at biting point until the engine feels like it no longer needs help from the clutch to get u going and u'll get full power in first. For me i normally hold the rpm between 2-2.5k keep the clutch at biting point, plant the throttle when im ready to go and then lift off the clutch as it takes off at full boost.
once u hit second try and control ur throttle input to limit the wheelspin, dont just plant it cos u kno ull end up spinning the wheels.
Side mount or front mount really doesn't matter, its still cooling the air.