[BMC912]

I agree with "altporsche" that race cars have put 1st in this location. However, if the location of 1st to the left was optimal than why didn't Porsche leave it in that location? Instead they changed to the H pattern for the first 4 gears when they made the 915 gearbox. I am not aware of many modern mass produced cars, with 5 speed transmissions, that have first in the lower left corner location.

Most 912 drivers are not at the track every day. They have the need to get out into traffic or accelerate from a stop light. A good 1st to 2nd transition maybe useful for these purposes. The 912 is not the most powerful car and we need all the help we can get.

Finally, in the typical SCCA autocross you do not use 5th gear. But there are occasions when you need to go back to 1st on a tight course. Looking for 1st next to reverse is a little tricky.