I thought the same thing as a new owner of a 2003 5-speed. Seems like the diff ratio is too short for all of the gears (1st is ridiculously short, I guess it's more like a granny gear or low range). But it does provide really good passing response on the highway without downshifting.

It sure does! Good for towing too.

I got used to the short gearing. 1st isn't quite a granny gear, I tried starting in 2nd a few times and felt that was too hard on the clutch so I don't do that.