[RallySnake]

Todd,

This is an interesting subject. I'll bet you'll get some differing opinions over it.

The difference in the horsepower range is controlled by the camshaft. I had a BIG solid lifter cam in my engine when I built it and the upper rpm power (4000 to ?) was amazing. I could dip the clutch for a second to let the engine rev and then pop it and spin the wheels at most speeds. Pulling away from a stop sign on an incline with the tall first gear and 3.31 rear was NOT so much fun. The best part was buzzing around canyon roads with the close ratio 4 speed. It was easy to keep the motor on boil. The NOT so good thing was the constant high rpm on the freeway.

Now, I have a milder hydralic cam, Rhodes lifters and a Tremec 5 speed and the car is much more relaxed. Power is made from 2200 to 5000. Crusing the freeway at 80 at 2700 rpm is perfect. The low 3.27 first gear launches the car easily from a stop in any mode. The transmission's wider ratios are not as much fun on the twisties though, I pretty much leave it in second. It's the same on an autocross track, second gear all the way.

Sometimes, I wish for a 6-speed, to have the best of all worlds. However, I suspect that, in practice, the 6 speed could be confusing. I would need a little digital display to show which gear I'm in.

I hope that answers your question,
Paul