In 5th gear, my 911 only does 65mph at about 3000rpm
As such, it feels like the engine really needs to work hard just for basic highway cruising.

 

You don't describe what you have, but to my ear 3000 RPM in my 3.2 sounds like it's JUST starting to hum happily....no stress at all. Cheers

 

Totally agree. 3,200 RPM is the happy zone. Uses less fuel, makes less heat rejection, the intake is compressing air just right, and you cruise at a happy 80mph or so.

 

Well fellas,

I'm on the fence. For me it depends on the day. I have a 74 with the 915 gear gox with a stomski coupler and while second gear is a bit of a chore unless the RMPs are properly matched, the great box is great. I fall into the camp of one of the guys who has never driven a rebuilt or new 911 with the 915 gearbox. I find it pulls or revs quicker than my 88 Carrera with the G50. The 915 most certainly has a heavier clutch and not as easy to drive if you hit a few lights in traffic while cruising the boulevard. If I ever let my wife behind the wheel, it will be in the Carrera.

 

well said: the G50 is a wife's transmission