I have a 2002 3.8 v6, m5.
i havent really looked in to gears much, so what is the most common gears people put on there, for the most power, but i still want a top speed so no 4.11 or 4.10.

thanks
-jonathan-

 

Found exactly what you need...

http://web.camaross.com/forums/search.php?s=

 

Assuming you have the standard 3.23's. Most folks will reccomend you the 3.42's. If you are really into performance, you could step up to 3.73's.

If you have the stock speed limiter on the car, Top speed won't really matter, all you can go is 120 MPH anyway.
But even so, with 4.10's. You'd still have a top speed capability of 135 MPH.

But, of course without changing the transmission around you will lose some driveability.
For example, right now you cruise:
With 3.23's 70 MPH at 2,250 RPM with a top speed of 171 MPH
With 3.42's 70 MPH is at 2,400 RPM with a top speed of 161 MPH
With 3.73's 70 MPH is at 2,650 RPM with a top speed of 148 MPH
With 4.10's 70 MPH is at 3,000 RPM with a top speed of 135 MPH

But, with the stock motor, you probably won't pull any more than 135 to 140 MPH, because the power just isn't there. And, without removing the govenor, all you'll do is 120 MPH no matter what gear change you make.

3.42's will be simillar to adding 11 horsepower.
3.73's will make a relative gain of 31 horsepower.
4.10's will net you a feel of an additional 50 horsepower.