Modern gear ratios
Why are the intermediate gear ratios in modern cars set so high?
Many cars with 6 speed gear boxes have the same peak speed in 4th, 5th, and 6th. Why not set 3rd, and 4th a little lower to aid overtaking from 30-50 and 50-70 mph.
My Mondeo ST can reach 90mph in 3rd, this impares acceleration between 50-70 mph when you need maximum punch. If 3rd peaked at 75-80mph the car would be much better.
Many cars with 6 speed gear boxes have the same peak speed in 4th, 5th, and 6th. Why not set 3rd, and 4th a little lower to aid overtaking from 30-50 and 50-70 mph.
My Mondeo ST can reach 90mph in 3rd, this impares acceleration between 50-70 mph when you need maximum punch. If 3rd peaked at 75-80mph the car would be much better.
Asked on 3 October 2011 by P. Ratcliffe
Answered by
Honest John
For economy on the EC cycle so they can get a lower CO2 and thus lower tax rating.
Tags:
gearboxes
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