I wouldn't know for absolute certain, as my job doesn't allow me to check all pairs within a binder (cable), and cross-reference.
Using my own premises as my only reference, having been responsible for making my neighbours aware of, and subsequently purchasing FTTC products, I can say we're all pretty much the same in terms of speed. We are a group of 5 houses in a cul-de-sac approx. 600mtrs from the Cab. All new 0.5 Cu wires.
If you are in the same cable from Cab to DP (Pole), then I would say the difference you are seeing is not normal. But we would need to be sure you are in the same cable, and also is your neighbour on the 80Meg product and you're on the 40Meg product ??
We are off the same pole (there are 8 drop cables from the pole we are on going to different properties) so I would guess that there is only 1 cable going to the pole.
The way I think our cables run is that it goes from the Cab (approx. 650m away) to an Underground Manhole at the entrance to our estate Which has 3 manhole covers (approx. 200m away) then to the Pole which is across the street then to the properties.
The manhole looks like the attached photo but has 3 covers, I guess this seems to be some kind of junction as its at the entrance to our estate and this is where most of the engineers head to when there is a problem.
Its actually the other way round I am on a 80/20 product and my neighbour is on a 40/2 product! However, I think PlusNet at one time said they would move me to a 40/10 product as it could result in me getting a better speed, but this didn't seem to make any difference.
My biggest complaint is that I was told and originally had a speed that would meet my Internet Needs, I now have an inferior speed which means that I can no longer watch 4k shows on Netflix (I bought two 4k TV's to enable me to watch 4K Netflix, these can now not be used to their full potential), I also have a NAS drive whereby I can access my files remotely, my upload speeds have reduced to half of what they originally were and it takes ages to download large files remotely, I also have IPTV and can no longer watch in HD on more than 1 TV at a time. Along with CCTV Cameras, VOIP and Nest Heating and Internet connected plugs, I have invested quite heavily in making my home internet connected to now find that I am unable to use these services as freely as I once could.