I've been thinking about this myself. We can't rule out talent limited entirely

I was short shifting some and being quite deliberate about my shifts, because I'm almost out of clutch. I think the bigger issue is gearing. I was hitting higher speeds last time (about 120) running a 24.75" dia tire. This time I'm running a 25.6" dia tire - not helpful. Also, being a frugal family sedan, 4th and 5th are over-drive - again, not helpful.
1st - 3.153
2nd - 1.842
3rd - 1.258
4th - 0.947
5th - 0.733
I was at or near redline in forth at about 108ish. I'd shift to 5th before the kink and would pick up very little speed. Suggestions? I have a set of 16x8 wheels, but they don't fit over my brakes.

And I really like the grip of the 275s on 18x10s.
Cash
You might try a MTX75 out of a early twin cam Focus. Its ratios are: