I am just south of Nashville in Murfreesboro so it is flat here. I will look to upgrade to the Auto Gear transmission later but I can buy a rebuild M21 from a coworker right now for $500. An extra $1500 does not fit the build budget at this time. However, I will be purchasing the ring and pinion for the rear end though. Wouldn't the 3.08 be a solid option to provide performance and comfortable highway cruising?