low numerical numbers I.E. 2.73 or High ratio would translate into a high speed performance type ratio with less torque multiplication translating to not as much off the line performance, like when starting out at a traffic light. Conversely, High number 3.73, 4.10 and higher, translate to off line, hard acceleration performance because of greater torque multiplication usually sacrificing performance at highway speeds because of the higher RPMs sacrificing economy [not to mention ear drums and fillings](try'n to keep it simple,not easy). 3.73 considered the best compromise of regular driving "streetability" and spirited performance. of course tire diameters can affect in the same way, but that is another story.