This topic always brings out radically different opinions from all the different ZR-1'ers. I respect them all.....but.
You'll notice the overall consensus seems to be that 4.10 gears are a great compromise street gear, and will improve overall driveability. That is my opinion too.
If you think about it, Where, and at what speed, do we have the most fun in our cars? Let's say from 10 mph to 130 mph. Is there anyone outside a few speed freaks that spends a lot of time above that speed? So, if that's where your driving, why not drive a four speed? These 4.10 gears allow you to use four forward gears for normal highway driving, and drag racing, and have two more, 5th for top end, and sixth for mileage. It's a "no brainer".
Even Chris (Killshots), changed his mind after spending more time behind the wheel with his new 4.10's
I've got some experience with manual transmissions. But sold my last three speed stick back in 1963. By that time every sports car enthusiast, hot rodder, or drag racer, was aware that the four speed was the way to go. Anyone that tells you that a stick shift three speed is the best way to cover a quarter mile is, let's be charitable, making a mistake.
Probably, and no one to my knowledge has tested this, the best gear for the quarter in the ZR-1 is 4.56. Any engine that can pull to 7,500 rpm can handle a high gear like that. It's simple math.
Some say,....but then you've got no traction in first. Traction? that's the problem I want to have. You just need a little more tire. And on the street you can always leave from a stop in second gear. You rarely use sixth, why not only use first for hard launches.
Different strokes for different folks. But for the GM test engineers, and me, 4.10's are the ideal street gear for this car.
JMHO.
