Muay Thai: speed vs. power, MMA stance vs. traditional ?

the thai stands is a lil different however ur elbows are still close enough to protect the ribs or thats how i was taught anyways, a good thai fighter will most likely block any kick with there lower elbows or just raise there leg to check it , the reason the hands are held differently is to protect the face, and to be able to throw elbows easier , i think from a self defense situation the western stance if better bc it allows u to throw punches faster, u dont need to be able to knock out a opponent but in a self defense situation u probably will not be wearing gloves, and with speed and bare knuckles, ur punches will have plenty of sting and power behind them