Why do so many cars have gear sizes so 1st is always around 30mph and 2nd around 60mph?

Question

3rd 4th 5th I notice varies greater

super cars and top sports cars have a lot bigger

Answer 1

It's the combonation of the design. Overall weight, horsepower to weight ratio,fuel economy and EPA regs. The car is designed to perform a certain way. In order to maximize performance and minimize fuel consumption and emmissions,many cars operate at similar speeds. 1st and 2nd gears are used to get the car moving. 3rd and up keep it moving.

Answer 2

The manufacture has to make sure that everybody can drive them. You might want a super low gear in first for your mustang gt to accelerate as quick as possible, but the old lady who bought it to be cool would be unhappy with the driveabilty if she had to shift before she was across the intersection. Gears on a regular car that is designed for mass consumption are always a compromise in performance, economy, comfort.