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From: 2212msr@whuts.UUCP (ROBIN)
Newsgroups: net.auto.tech
Subject: Re: To 5 speed or 4 speed, that is the ?
Message-ID: <538@whuts.UUCP>
Date: Mon, 17-Feb-86 08:15:04 EST
Article-I.D.: whuts.538
Posted: Mon Feb 17 08:15:04 1986
Date-Received: Tue, 18-Feb-86 06:41:41 EST
References: <583@philabs.UUCP> <2956@ut-ngp.UUCP>
Organization: AT&T Bell Laboratories
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> Perhaps the best compromise would be a car with a true 4 speed (in
> terms of ratios, etc.), with a separate, switch-on/off overdrive.  I think
> that recent Volvo 4 spds have this feature - an "electric" overdrive
> activated by a slide switch on the gearshift knob (but not my 1980, alas! -
> my engine is doing anything BUT loafing in 4th at highway speeds). 
> I'm sure many other cars have something like this.  Has anyone had 
> experience experience with these?  Do they "feel" like 5 speeds or
> something different?
> 
> mb

Having Volvos with both 4speed and 4speed + OD of the same years I can attest to the fact that
the OD vesion drives no differently, i.e. no extra rowing around of gear
shiftiing.  Just more relaxed 'high' speed cruising and better gas milage.

My '85 has 4+OD, but unfortunately has a much lower numerical
ear axle ratio and it doesn't cruise worth a d*mn in OD if there are hills
at anything over about 70.  It's not unusual to find onesaelf in 3rd
at 80 to maintain speed up stiff hills on interstates.

I much prefer the 4speed+OD to the typical Japanese 5 speed for just the reasons
you mentioned.
Max Robin

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