Twisted

At least, I don't think this has been asked except by myself--but I don't think I expressed myself well enough before. This time, I'm ready to bring it.

The original question was:
When adding higher (numerically) gears, is the perceived acceleration increase just a result of the engine being kept at a higher overall rpm, or is the acceleration increase due to the higher rpms coupled with the fact that the car is travelling at a lower relative speed.

My newest way of asking is:
Does 4k rpms in 2nd gear (for example) feel the same with 2.73s as it does with 3.73s? Or does the car pull harder at 4k in second with 3.73s because the car is moving slower relative to the rpms? I hope that makes sense. Honestly, I've been pondering that question for years, after having changed gearing on motorcycles.

ZoSo15

the thing is steeper gearing will get you into the power band quicker (and at a lower speed) so it improves low speed acceleration.

gspfunk

4.10's make your car faster b/c they raise your rpms and put you in your tq band faster than 2.73's.

I don't know if that's the answer you're looking for...[]

ckyguy68

it is also easier for the engine to turn with high gears. it simulates a lighter load.

Twisted

Right!! That's what I was getting at--or pretty close to it anyway. Anyone care to expound on or refute this discovery?

Twisted

If this is the case, then the increased acceleration isn't just due to the engine being kept closer to its powerband; it is due to some other hidden force at work having to do with physics and things I don't understand. By the way, thanks for the replies, everyone. Anyone else?

meiguoren33

It's a simple matter of torque mutliplication. Like putting a longer handle on a wrench. Your engine puts that much more torque to the wheels.

ZoSo15

uh yeah. lower gearing feeds upon the dark energy of the universe (this is the energy that is making the universe accelerate apart). this hidden force will help your car accelerate

89GTRed

^^^[sm=lol.gif]

Twisted

LOL. I'm not talking about mojo or juju or Darthvader, you ape! I'm talking about leverage and torque like Cky and Meiguoren33 have touched on. Anyway, it is very possible that I am just trippin', and I can respect that. I just can't help but feel that there is more to it than just "keeping the engine in its powerband." Anyway, thanks for all the replies.