Comparing manual trans options - variables other than gear ratios?

I prefer the A833 or the A833 O/D. I can use my favorite Hurst shifter and linkage. OEM parts and everything works as it should. I have run most of the standard A833 gear sets and O/D gears. I like them all, I have no problem with the much reported gear splits, and I run a 273. The biggest problem with the 3.09 first gear is that I am through it so quickly. I like the shift pattern on a 4 speed best. I don't like the shift pattern on 5 or 6 speed boxes as much. We ran these A833 cars all day long at high speed and 3.23 gears turning about 2,500 rpm. Why mangle up a car we loved for a little lower gear and a box not made for your car?