There are regions with steep hills - which require low gearing (high numerical axle ratios) and inter-city fast highways - which demand high gearing (low numerical axle ratios).
Where both hills and fast highways are endemic, it's easier to cope with more powerful (higher torque) engines (a good biggun will always beat a good littlun).
Six-speed double-overdrive gearbox ratios can extend the range of useful performance.
Less-powerful engines (torque-wise) will struggle when faced with both (hills and fast roads), and the wrong choice of axle/gearbox ratios will compound this 'weakness'.
RE: Go North East - Latest