The car will be fastest with the engine coolant as cool as possible, while having the engine oil, trans fluid and rear end up to temp or hotter. Also cold fuel will pick up a little as well. When we need a "hero" run we chill the fuel, heat the engine oil and diff and make sure the trans is thoroughly warmed with the brake. No other real way to get a fair amount of heat in the trans in a small amount of time. As for consistency you are looking for just that across the board. A lot of guys struggle with their first hit off the trailer being a "throw" away from the rest IMO the main reason is trans temp. Just not enough heat in it without making a hit. There is a reason people putting in the air and lay on the brake.