What does a higher drive ratio number indicate?

A higher drive ratio number indicates better acceleration because it means that the engine's power is being transmitted to the wheels at a higher ratio, allowing for quicker acceleration from a standstill. This ratio reflects the relationship between the speed of the engine (in revolutions per minute) and the speed of the wheels. When the drive ratio is higher, the wheels turn more quickly for each revolution of the engine, enhancing the vehicle's ability to accelerate, especially at lower speeds or when starting from a stop.

In contrast, a lower drive ratio typically implies that the vehicle can achieve greater top speeds but may sacrifice acceleration. While improved fuel economy can occur with certain drive ratios, this is more complex and often relates to the efficiency of specific engine designs and driving conditions rather than the ratio alone. Increased top speed would generally be associated with lower drive ratios due to less engine strain at higher speeds, and lower engine noise would be an outcome influenced by various factors including engine design and speed, rather than directly by the drive ratio itself.