[silver_pilate]

Yeah, AOD's have the definate advantage if you've got enough power to spin 'em. For street use and track use, they can be built to run with five speeds. A valve body, gears, and a loose converter will almost get you there. The main thing with AOD's is the increased amount of rotating mass. A 9" converter helps to lessen this (an alumium shaft also helps) and the gearing allows the motor to get in the power band more quickly.

It takes money, but an AOD can be made to run with a T-5 if you've got the power. You're right however, in that for the most part if you've got two cars with identical power mods, the T-5 can be quicker than the modded AOD. But alot depends on the driver. Modded AOD's can have an advantage because driver error is taken away. All you gotta do is throw the lever and mash the pedal. With a stick, you've gotta learn how to launch, how to slip the clutch, and you've gotta make the correct shifter throws. That's what can make a daily driven moddified AOD quicker than a T-5....the driving element alone.

--nathan