Quote:
Originally Posted by jkoral
I've driven a BMW manual since 1996 and plan to keep buying manual as long as I can. It's slower, but more engaging. I don't derive a paycheck from my lap times or the red light drag strip, so it makes no difference to me. I've daily driven all my manuals and never tired, or regretted it, even in stop and go traffic (Boston area) - although since covid-19, my M2 has sat in the garage since March 2020.
When BMW no longer offers a manual, I would consider switching brands. But with the G87 LCI ending production in Spring 2029, I should be able to keep driving BMW manuals to at least 2035 (I keep my cars a long time).
BTW, I taught my wife to drive manual and she enjoys it. She bought a manual for her next car (back in 1997). She has only driven my car on very rare occasions (once per year, if that).
|
So, I'd like to address this idea that modern automatics shift faster than modern manual transmissions. So, in cases where the automatic is a PDK or dual-clutch automatic, sure those transmissions, which are really manual gearboxes anyway, can shift faster than a traditional 3-pedal manual. And some of the torque converter automatics with 6, 8, and 10 speed automatics can be programmed to shift faster as well, but the speeds of those shifts are tied to the amount of throttle input the driver is providing relative to his acceleration desires. But in real world street use, a dual clutch or torque converter auto transmission shifts no faster in traffic than a 3-pedal at moderate throttle input. So, to me, in real application, how fast some modern automatic transmissions can shift is mostly irrelevant; they CAN shift a little faster than a 3-pedal, but in real use, mostly they really don't. I'd much rather trade a small amount of theoretical shift speed for far greater gear selection choice, especially the instant availability to have neutral at any time.
The above point is tied to my question to the OP if he thinks manumatics can shift faster than a 3-pedal. If you are a true manual transmission driver, shifting is mostly an unconscious act that just is a part of driving, as much as steering is used to change directions.