Ok, I remember now that close-ratio gears were an option. As far as close-ratio gears being more desirable, that depends on the differential ratio and the intended use of the car. A 4-spd Avanti with 2:20 first gear and a 3.31 diff would be a dog off the line. I have an R3 Avanti with 3:31 diff and the (wide ratio, A833 ?) Chrysler 4-spd and that combination is great for street driving.
--Dwight