I have the listed mods on my car and use as a daily driver. I love the car, but do not race it. I am thinking about getting a 224 cam later and want new gears now for the rear. Should I go with the 3.73 or 4.10. 2001 Trans Am WS6 w/M6.

 

I'm pretty happy with my 3.73's.

Any lower wouldn't give the same power.

If it was my choice I'd go a bit higher, 4.10 or 4.30. Actually I'd make sure I didn't have to shift into 5th in the 1/4 so probably 4.10

I wouldn't pay to make the jump from 3.42 to 3.73.

So maybe try the 4.10's? They will only be a couple hundred RPM higher than the 3.73 on the highway.

You probably won't be more than 2500 RPM at 85. I think it'll be about 2300 or so.

 

I think you'll find quite a variety of replys to the 3.73 vs 4.10/4.11 comparison.

I have 4.10s. I have had standard automatic muscle cars with 4.30s, no overdrive. 75 mph @ 3500 rpm in a 440 big block is what I would consider unlivable. I traded those back then for some 3.73s.

I cruise on the hwy doing 75 @ 2050rpm. That is extremely livable compared to the prior scenario, and performance driving is great. 1st is still usable, although I do some 2nd gear starting. It is definately a quicker car with the 4.10's. I just didn't think the 3.73s were enough of a change to warrant the costs. Best bet would be to locate someone with both gears, and see for yourself. good luck with what ever you decide!

 

Thanks guys, that helped me alot. I think you are both right. I will probably go with the 4.10s and see what happens. Like I said, it's not a racer, but just a daily driver. Of course even as a daily driver, I still want to "feel more power". That's what it's all about though, right? Thanks again for the help.

 

With stock tires, an M6, and 4.10 gears, you'd be doing 2280 RPM at 85 mph.

3.42 - 1901 RPM @ 85 MPH

3.73 - 2073

4.10 - 2280

4.30 - 2390

4.56 - 2534

Looking at this, I'll definately be getting 4.10 gears if I get a new rearend.