Really? mine pulls in 3rd right up to around 90

I think the valvers are best through 2nd into 3rd, higher top speed in each gear with more pull nearer the redline, this equates to about 3/4 car lengths over an 800m dash
My valvers have only had the legs over the 8v in this area and in overall top speed.
Mk3 8v wont go over 120mph where as 16v will go to 130mph, i found this to be the case my Mk2's as well.
16v is better but there is little in it, you still get shamed by French cars which is all part of owning a Mk3 GTI
