A control device for a spark ignition internal combustion engine, the engine including a throttle valve, an exhaust valve, and a spark timing device, the control device comprising a first linkage adapted to be operatively connected to the throttle valve, a second linkage adapted to be operatively connected to the exhaust valve, a third linkage adapted to be operatively connected to the spark timing device, and a control linkage interconnecting the first, second, and third linkages for providing coordinated control of the throttle valve, the exhaust valve, and the spark timing device.