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Originally Posted by BMWCali
Interesting. So does this drive ratio also apply to reverse gear?
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Yes as it is the ratio in the differential(s). Whether the driveshaft turns one way or the other is controlled by the transmission.
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If the ActiveHybrid 3 is 2.81 and the 335i is 3.15, then does that mean that the ActiveHybrid 3 can go faster in reverse . . .
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No. It means it will accelerate
slower in both forward and reverse.
Drag racers often install a shorter drive ratio, such as 4.1:1. This means the drive shaft will turn 4.1 times to turn the axle once. This effectively increases wheel torque, allows the engine to rev quickly and results in significantly faster 0-60 and faster quarter mile times. The tradeoff is a lower top speed and MPG - neither of which is of concern to drag racers.
On the other hand, the AH's taller ratio will make it accelerate slower than the 335i but will give it better gas mileage - perfect for the application as people buying the AH expect improved mileage.