I've asked this before but this time I've got the graph to help visualize it. It is generally accepted that shorter gears = faster. It sure feels that way. However, physics says that the powerband plays a role. Given the following powerband, for straight line performance, would a longer geared LS tranny or short geared ITR tranny suit the car better (and for what reason)? This is a nonvtec 84mm b-series in a 2300lb car.

(Note this dyno is from a mustang dyno which are proven to indicate readings 5-15% lower than dynojets)

 

ITR tranny has LSD and with all that torque..could help a lot.
i hope people with 84-86+mm's will chime in.