With high fuel prices, overdrive becomes mandatory. And a higher (lower numerical final drive ratio must be considered. Give up a little E.T. in the name of mpg. Luckily, that results in higher top end speed
Look into reducing curb weight as well. I, for one, will have to convert to fuel injection sooner than later. We'll see more application of LSx engines too. And more turbos than blowers.
What we really need is aftermarket "Direct Injection" technology.
/Steevo