v8, autos & final-drive ratios

[glen powell <gpowell@acacianet.com>]

It is very typical to use a higher final drive ratio (lower number) with auto trans
in otherwise identical vehicles of all makes:

1) to get back some of the fuel economy wasted as heat by the slush-box
2) often used in luxury cars where lower revs/MPH = quieter operation
3) often used in luxury cars where quiet is more important Vs acceleration
4) often used in luxury cars where higher top-end may be more prestigious Vs faster acceleration
5) longer driving range Vs lower final drive ratios (higher number)

I believe the 5KTQWs use a higher final drive Vs the otherwise identical 5KTQ sedans for
reasons 2, 3 and 5 as well as an even larger fool tank for even more range Vs
the otherwise identical 5KTQ sedans.

All IMFO,

-glen