Gear Ratio Recommendation

We are all spoiled by the overdrive automatic transmission. In the old days, (granted, freeway speeds aren't what they are now) 3000-3500 rpm at freeway speed was common. Engines also were worn out in 60k miles.. example: 55 chevy 265, with a powerglide, came with 3.55. Three speed stick was a 3.70. Three speed stick with electric overdrive came with a 4.11. Ford gearing was similar. With the horsepower levels of the time , gearing was necessary to provide any kind of performance.
I commuted to work for years with a 440 roadrunner with a 4.10 dana. 3700rpm at 70mph was common. I wouldnt think of doing that today. I've got three vehicles that I commute from CA to AZ with, one is at 2500 at 70, one is 2100, and the one with the double overdrive is at around 1700.