It also seemed while looking at these old bike tests (thanks for posting those for us) that Univega had some of the better gearing choices. It was also interesting that even various triple chainring tourers had non optimal gearing. If ever optimal gearing was called for, it would seem to be with the touring crowd. As a group, I bet there is quite a bit of attention paid to gearing, and even back in the day, I could imagine it factored into the new bike purchase.
Those interesting road tests didn’t seem to have many negative comments on gearing choices, but often had praise for better gearing. Then as now, it is better not to offend your advertisers.