Does turbo size weigh into the decision? Would longer gears be better for a bigger turbo, or the other way around? Don't smaller turbo's start to die off earlier than a bigger one, or is that based on RPM level and not gear ratio's?

 

My 98 was a lx and a 5 speed. When boosted with the LX transmission I was rounding out 3rd in the 1/4 mile(could get to 99mph in 3rd and was trapping in the mid 90's) To me if you swapped the ex transmission out you would wish you wouldn't.

 

i agree. it *might* end up a little faster in the 1/4, but on the street, the closer gearing would get you into boost faster, and be a lot more fun to drive.