Your distributor will work on 12v and does not need to be "resisted down" to work with a 12v coil. Any coil you select does, however, need to be wired in an appropriate system with or without a resistor to match the coil. Examples of coils can be seen
Here for Lucas. Speak to an Auto Parts shop and they can suggest a proper set up. A coil with resistor can provide better starting IF wired up correctly, but you might need an Auto Electrician's assistance to do that.
From what I can see of your distributor, it looks to be a British type fitted to Ford Pilot cars and Thames Trader trucks. Are you in the UK?