What's the fuss about the 6 speed tranny
 

Hey I am an FNG (F$#@ing New Guy) and have absolutely no clue about performance and cars. I have learned a great deal about stangs reading "hammer" and Mr 5.0.

I am waiting to order my 2003 cobra and have a simple question about the transmission.


I hear that the 2003 mustangs will come with a 6 speed transmission.

What is the benifit of having a 6 speed transmission?

Is this strictly a fuel economy thing or does this add to the performance of the car? Will the sixth gear add to top end or simple allow for the car to cruise at a higher speed without stressing the motor?

Elliot

The 6speed not only stronger..You can use steeper gears and still cruise at lower RPM's because of the addition overdrive gear..

Jim V.

I understand the lower RPM issue. However, what do you mean stronger. Do you mean that you will have more power at the low end or that the system is stronger.

The tranny is rated to handle more HP and TQE..

Jim V.

there's probably nothing special about it at all.
i don't know the exact data on the new one, but most 6 speeds only have one overdrive gear like other trannys. (if it has 2 overdrives, thats awesome) overdrive might be a little steeper than others. it just means there are more gears to climb through (pain in the butt), but the gears can be made at closer ratios (good) which can help you keep the motor in the power band.

it also does not necessarily make it stronger. only superior construction and design will do that. M-21 and M-22s from the 60s are examples of this.

and for anyone thinking about jumping all over me - i did not say it is a close or wide ratio tranny. that is another story.

4speeds.com has some good info on trannys basics for you.