4 speed or 5 speed? HELP

[bbarnes]

I am planning on replacing the manual trans in my 72 240z with a manual. I want to keep it as stock as possible. What are the pros/cons of a 4 speed vs a 5 speed? Which one do most people recommend and why?

[Virto]

I assume you really mean replacing the automatic transmission with a manual.

The 5-speed will give you better fuel economy as it'll rev lower in top gear. The 4-speed is cool (I mean, LOTS of people have 5-speed cars...show them you're better by being inferior!) and readily available. Both are pretty durable if you're nice to them.

I think there are 3 different versions of the 5-speed trans, and maybe only one version of the 4-speed (please correct me). From a scrapyard, both should cost about the same.

Quite a few people have swapped 4s for 5s. I'm hoping they'll chime in.

[onuthin]

I am planning to swap my 4 speed to a 5.When I drive on open roads it just doesn't feel right in 4th gear because of the rpm.I am always trying to shift one more time.According to the book 4th gear in a 5 speed is the same ratio as 4th in a 4 speed.The only difference is overdrive in the 5 speed.I plan on keeping the 4 speed in case I sell the car or I ever want to go back original.It is an easy swap.

[Arne]

There are two four speeds, the early Type 1 was only used in '70 and some '71 cars. All later four speeds were the same.

There are very few pros to staying with a four speed, especially for a non-Series 1 car. I swapped my automatic for a four speed, but I'm definitely a bit eccentric.

[Dtsnlvrs]

There are two four speeds, the early Type 1 was only used in '70 and some '71 cars. All later four speeds were the same.

There are very few pros to staying with a four speed, especially for a non-Series 1 car. I swapped my automatic for a four speed, but I'm definitely a bit eccentric.

The type 1 as you call it was the "A" type box, very similar to the roadster boxes. The later was the "B" type. However there were two different gearsets used in the "B" type. The 74 260 had a shorter 1st and 2nd gear to make up for its extra weight. All the rest of the 4sp had the same ratios ("A" and "B").

I too prefer the 4sp...kinda funny like that....however I am looking for a 3.7 rearend and a early 5sp....I like the final drive ratio I get with the 4sp and 3.54 gears.

[Zs-ondabrain]

Two words...."five Speed"

Just keep in mind that a manual tranni allows for more exhaust and header options. Even if you're trying to keep it stock.

[sblake01]

Depends on how you want to drive your car. The four speed pulls harder through the gears. The five speed cruises better.

[zhead240]

i'm like onuthin,keep wanting to shift into 5th which i don't have.