4 Speed vs 5 Speed - Driving Experience?

[Ruby911]

I have the chart listing the various ratios of the different gearboxes available in the 911, but dont have first hand knowldege of how those translate to the driving experience. In particular when comapring the 4 speed vs. the 5 speed. Can someone with first hand knowledge of driving both these gearboxes explain how the driving experience differs.

Thanks in advance for your opinions,
- Farrell

[jaldeguer]

I've been meaning to ask the same question as I'm about to purchase a 2.4T with a 4 speed tranny. Any input would be appreciated.

Jay

[Reza]

Both cars(4 spd & 5spd) can be driven.

Both cars can be driven in spirited fashion

The 4 speed will feel like you are pushing the car harder.

Maybe 98.8% of race porsches from the era had 5 speeds. Must be a reason.

[Irish911]

The gear ratio for 1st is the same for both and the ratio for 4th on a 4 speed is the same as 5th on a 5 speed. So the only difference should be during acceleration. Conceivably you would think a person should be able to accelerate faster in a 4 speed since there is one less gear to shift.

[RSTarga]

The rpm drops between gears will be larger, meaning that the engine does not operate in the engines' sweet spot as much of the time as a 5 speed. If all you are doing is street driving not that big a deal. More than likely, if you are asking this question, it probably won't matter to you.

[ibmiked]

FWIW.

If you're willing to pay, you can have another gear installed in a 4spd transmission (bringing the total to 5) and still have a matching numbers car.

[304065]

The best part about the 4 speed is the Turbocharger and TWO overdrive gears

[Jim Breazeale]

I've been meaning to ask the same question as I'm about to purchase a 2.4T with a 4 speed tranny. Any input would be appreciated.

Jay

Leave it alone! 4spds Rock!

Regards

Jim

[TZombek]

I had a 4spd in my '69 T and it was fine.

[NOPDK]

Initially had a 4 speed in my 73T with 3.0L motor. Rpm drops were around 1800-2k per gear. Cruising on highway at 80+MPH had RPM over 4300 buzzing away. If motor has torque the 4 speed should be less of an issue. If motor is peaky with narrow power band then 4 speed will be a big limitation IMO.