Personally I think the diesel gearing is much better suited to the V8's NA torque delivery, as it is, 1st gear will spin the rears if you plant your foot at 1500 rpm, wet or dry. Anything lower geared would be even worse....
Agreed, 6th is just for motorway cruising, does make for a quiet drive though.
The engine is in a Lotus Esprit, for the build blog check out
Homemade V8 Espirit
Hilly