It’s definitely a more refined car.
I did a similar change from a 2.5 e85 to a 30i.
But I love the car.
The sheer grunt makes me smile, and going from an auto back to a manual makes it more involving and suits me as it’s a fun car rather than a daily.
The m sports seats make it much more comfortable.
Whilst I agree it’s effortless power, it just makes me giggle, and in sport it’s just so responsive.
It certainly draws plenty of attention, and the exhaust note under hard acceleration is awesome.
I suppose for me it’s been a learning curve, as I hadn’t driven a manual car in 4 years, so being in control of the revs is something I was not used to.
I know for a fact it has a lot more power available than I am currently using, but I explore it more every time I go out.
The engine can easily make you lazy and short shift, but you know it’s there if you need it or just fancy giving it some boot.
I love the fact it’s two cars in one.
Whilst I loved the 85, I love the benefits of it becoming a virtual coupe when the roof is up.
It also adds to the experience, because I normally only drive it twice a week, so I look forward to driving her.
It’s a lot of fun on steep hills, as it reminds me of my bikes in that you’re just pulling harder as you accelerate, rather than reaching the limits as you would on a less powerful engine.
Bring on next summer, as I only caught the tail end of the good weather this year
