Speciale - gearbox ratios

[boxerTen]

Having become somewhat acquainted with the Speciale on road and track I've tentatively come to the conclusion its gear ratios could be improved. 1st gear is superfluous, its not used on the track, and around town 2nd is fine at very low speeds (1500 rpm corresponds to just 10 mph). From a standing start 1st is short enough to spin the rear wheels all the way to the limiter, even I suspect when loaded with two portly gentleman, a full tank of fuel, and the car pointed uphill on a hot Italian day (so those Cup 2s are nice and sticky). Possibly 2nd gear wouldn't quite manage it. On the other hand at the top of the gearbox there are comparitively large gaps between 5th, 6th, and 7th. Contrast for example with the 911 GT3.

So here's my suggestion: Remove 1st gear. Shorten 2nd a little. Squeeze another gear into the space between 5th and 7th.

I would be interested to know what ratios the 458 Challenge cars run, does anybody know?