I don't see the benefit of a 5-speed, unless it was significantly cheaper
and/or easier to install (not the case). The 5th gear is almost always an
overdrive ratio, so the net effect is the same. And if it isn't an
overdrive ratio, then you don't gain the benefits of OD, you just get
closer ratios (for what purpose?).
I assume the reason contemporary cars have 5-speeds is that it is cheaper
(and more space-efficient) to build the extra economy/cruise gear into
the transmission than to add-on an overdrive system. But the old British
sports car makers were limited to the parts that were developed for the
mass-market sedans, and couldn't afford to develop a tranny specifically
for sporting use. But the OD did the trick then, and still does, IMHO.
Tab Julius had this to say:
>
>I'm looking to add OD to my '78B, having been so encouraged by everyone
>I've asked.
>
>However, I've become aware of a 5-speed conversion kit for the B. It's
>considerably more expensive than the OD, though.
>
>Anyone try it? Would it be preferably over the OD? Enough to justify the
>difference in cost? What about difficulty/time changing to 5-speed over
>installing an OD?
>
>Thanks in advance,
>
>- Tab
>
--
Max Heim
'66 MGB GHN3L76149
If you're near Mountain View, CA,
it's the red one with the silver bootlid.
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