On searching for power from V8

[Mann Law <mannlaw@indy.net>]

	I prolly need to preface the following w/ a caveat that I know 
*nothing* about the Audi V8.  Driven several, liked 'em, but dumb on the 
design *especially* on the auto.  With that said...

	Years ago, during my Mopar racing days, I convinced myself that 
the automatic tranny was the way to go.  Especially, if you wanted to 
drive [at least sometimes] on the street what I raced, umm, usually on 
the street.  Prob w/ the manual was (1) the clutch (2) keeping stuff 
working--when needed the most [read here part breakage on launch].  As 
most know, great racing clutches are about like throwing an on / off 
switch--pure bit*h on the street.

	So, even w/ small block, I went with a manual valve body w/ 
reverse shift pattern [so that up-shifts were always made away from 
neutral--and corresponding moon rev].  Settled on 3800 stall converter 
and 4.88 rear gear.  Now, while the shifts on that car were made way 
above what you will shift at in the Audi, it is a great setup to remember 
when looking for power with a normally aspirated motor.  You have to look 
at where the power comes in on your car and design around getting to and 
staying in that range.  Beats the hell out of getting power through 
higher compression [although I was running 12.5 to 1], expensive heads, 
etc.  Now, I don't know whether you want to dig into your Audi auto or 
not, or alter your drive ratio @ axle.  But, getting to powerband quicker 
sometimes makes getting *more* power unnecessary.  Gas mileage will 
suffer some, all depending on how psycho you go with drive ratio--it is a 
give and get situation.  Personally, if I had a V8 auto, I would find me 
an auto tranny needing rebuild and put pencil to paper on drive ratio 
before I opened the motor for more power.  Just my nickel's worth.

	Bruce