Manual vs. steptronic

kpb · 2007-11-08T16:46:43+00:00

I was thinking I'd get a manual, for the fun of shifting. Haven'tdriven one in years though.The BMW manual was very smooth, but the gear shifter is very "tight",little confusing to know which gear you're in. Plus the handbrake isin kind of a funny position to use on hill starts. Partly that andpartly as I haven't driven one in years I was a little shaky on theBMW manual I test drove.The steptronic though. Wow, that is just great. Shift up, shiftdown, shifts instantly and gives you a readout as to what gear you'rein.So what is the upside to a manual if there is steptronic? I guess youcan dictate how fast to let the clutch out...I didn't get to thatpoint as I was unfamiliar with the set point. It's so smooth Icouldn't really feel it.I would think if you're tired of shifting a lot in traffic, thesteptronic is the way to go.What sayest thou? I am into sporty driving, but I"m not going to thetrack or anything.

Nov 08, 2007 41 Replies

Rate this thread:

Floyd Rogers 18 years ago

Of course, you UK guys could really play with us US heads by saying: "L-reg E39 528i" or some such.

FloydR

Vote

adder1969 18 years ago

It's like a fluid clutch and until the revs reach a certain point (usually 2k-2.5k rpm) the engine and gears aren't directly linked. that's why in an auto when you put your foot down you hear the engine revs increase before the car's speed increases.

Vote

Join the Discussion

Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.

Didn't find your answer?

Ask the community — no account required