3 spd vs 4 spd auto

[jakegday]

hey i was just wondering which cavalier would have a better 1/4 mile time, a 3 speed auto or a 4 speed auto, same engine, same everything,

[KJRich]

I've never really seen this discussed before. Probably the 4 speed is quicker (even though you'd not hit 4 in a drag race). The gearing in the 3 speed is probably "taller" since there is no overdrive gear, whereas the the first 3 gears in the 4 speed tranny are probably "shorter" ratios, since it has overdrive to help with fuel economy. Good question though, I've never thought about it.

[jakegday]

that is what i thought, but wasnt sure, i thought there might be a chance the 3 speed would win cuz it doesnt have to shift as much, but im sure the gear ratio thing makes a much bigger difference, if anyone else has a thought or comment id love to hear it,

[4dr92cavi4cyl]

My 92 2.2 3-speed auto hits second gear at 45-50 mph and hits third gear at almost 90 mph. I hit the traps at 71mph, 19.5, it sucks, I'm not even using all of two gears! I know, it's pathetic. That was the old motor though, I doubt it would get under a 19 unless I ran 100 octane, LOL!

[Classicrocjunkie]

4 speed... you go through more power bands than in a 3 speed. My car shifts out of 1st @ 35mph, 2nd 65, 3rd 80-85, 4th.. till top out. But 3 speed is better for boost i hear.

[jakegday]

cool, im sure someone will think less of me for asking this one but, my 5 speed would be faster then a 4 speed, right????? once again same engine and same everything, this doesnt have to do with anything but mine tops out at around 30 in first, 55 in second, 82 in third, i dont kow about 4th but ive heard 5th will obviously stop at 108

[KJRich]

Yes, stock the 5 speed is generally quicker, if all other factors are the same and if the driver can shift well. Heavily modded cars are a whole different story, though. Too many factors.

[jakegday]

Originally Posted by KJRich

Yes, the 5 speed is generally quicker, if all other factors are the same and if the driver can shift well.

yeah and to help with my shifting ive installed a tachometer, i noticed that it kinda starts to throw you back in your seat a little bit at 4000, i also just thought of another question, ive heard that the horsepower peaks at 5000, but it redlines at 6000, when would be the best time (rpm) to shift to which gear???? i heard that for first and second i should shift at 5 and the rest of the gears hold it till 6, but im not sure, any opinions?????