Thanks Bob, I did check out other year and model transmissions for a better final drive. Still looking.

This pig needs like a 4.9 and it would probably drop laptimes by 3 seconds. The gearbox with the stock 4.2 final or whatever is capable of probably 170 mph if it could pull it. We just need to get to like 120 fast. The gearing is tight and the motor revs forever and smooth and it's really a well balanced and very fun car to drive. Not mine but I do the wrenching and get to test it now and then...

If you're not maxing out the Celica on the straights, this is a wonderful upgrade. My ITC Honda is much faster everywhere with the higher final. We just run different size tires to compensate for the lower top end speed when we need to.
Matt