The transmission is a big power hog,far more than the gear ratio.our 420 cu.in SB2.2 super late model engine makes 844 H.P. and 714 at the rollers on our Dyno jet. trans is a Bert which is straight through and rear end is quick change.this combination averages 18.2 loss as compared to the same engine on a engine dyno.drag cars with powrglides and a 9" average 25-28% loss on the same dynos. changing gear ratio on the car has the same affect on power as changing acceleration rates on a engine dyno.if you test an engine at 600 rpm per second increase then test the same engine at 300 rpm per second increase the 300 will always show more power because the engine is using less power to accelerate itself and the drive train at the faster rate.Bill