Contrary to belief the GVR4 is slightly longer or "taller" than the DSM gear, it's simply not as strong. The ratio is good, and honestly very beneficial for drag racing since you arent having to shift into second before you hit the tree, BUT it's weak.
The DSM first gear is stronger, especially the 92+ units, but the ratio is so short it's next to useless, ESPECIALLY when you're making decent power or on a bigger turbo. Literally, useless. In my own car('90 AWD DSM trans), launching at 10lbs on my T67 I have to shift into second prettymuch RIGHT after I let the clutch out for the launch. Still, I come close to or hit the limiter(which is also moved to 7800)most of the time....also, the tach's arent 100% accurate either. My tach will read 7k but Im actually on the limiter, for instance.
Evo3 gearsets are the best bang for the buck AND the best ratio, so the best of both worlds for our cars and DSMs. This is also why most rebuild shops (Jack's, TRE, Shep) offer them in their rebuilds as an upgrade. As soon as I can foot the bill I'll be getting myself a Jack's stage 2.1 with full EVO3 gearset again, and will never look back.
-Jake