Top end in manual vs. auto E36 M3's

[Teh Prof]

Got this info off of bmwmregistry.com:

"The North American-spec 3.2-liter E36 M3 retains the ZF Type C five-speed manual gearbox of the 3.0-liter version, with the same internal ratios: 4.20 (1), 2.49 (2), 1.66 (3), 1.24 (4), 1.00 (5). Starting with the 1997 model year, the ZF 5HP18 five-speed automatic returned as an option with the same internal ratios used on the 3.0-liter model: 3.67 (1), 2.00 (2), 1.41 (3), 1.00 (4), .74 (5).

All 3.2-liter M3s equipped with a manual gearbox (including SMG) use a shorter 3.23:1 final drive and limited slip differential. North American-spec M3s with the ZF five-speed automatic transmission have an even shorter 3.38:1 rear end, also with limited slip."

Doing some back of the envelope calculations, this would seem to indicate that my automatic is geared for a higher top end than the manuals. Never would have thought that would be true. Any guesses on why? What am I missing here?

[saltshaker185]

maybe that autos are tuned more towards luxury and so they are tuned down to be more economical? where as a 5 speed is performance tuned?? just a guess...

[Teh Prof]

My peak torque comes about 1200 rpms lower than manuals too.

[saltshaker185]

thats strange as hell... not a clue why....