Automatic vs Manual

[ronk]

I think that lot answers your question!

It’s pity that nobody with an Auto / Dct lives beside you. You could always go to a dealer for a test drive?

Thanks. Yes that's the logical next step. No interest in the 4 banger and local dealers don't have any 30 or 35s. Will keep a look out. Or maybe go to a 3 / 4 series.

Although officially at old codger / git stage of life, I still appreciate my 35is!
It can be driven like a hearse with smooth leisurely gear changes or like a hooligan, the choice is your own, dependant on mood and location.
I would say that the big 6 pots are an ideal match for the auto 'box

 

[A1GSS]

No M autos I guess. :?

 

[JimsZ]

If its your only car go for it. I have the best of both worlds and being old school love the manual but as has been said not as much fun stuck in traffic.

My understanding is all BMW cars will eventually bin off manual its the past unfortunately oke:

 

[IRD]

I have had a 2.3s with auto and now have a 3.5is with DCT. I wouldn’t swop back to a manual at any price. But it really is a very personal choice. Some guys on here absolutely love the manual box. You really need to try an auto Z to see if feels right for you. That is the only way you can make an informed choice. Good luck with it, whatever you decide.

 

[A1GSS]

If its your only car go for it. I have the best of both worlds and being old school love the manual but as has been said not as much fun stuck in traffic. My understanding is all BMW cars will eventually bin off manual its the past unfortunately oke:

It's a summer toy. And the decision is about pain management...! Almost all my dailies since 1975 have been autos.

 

[A1GSS]

I have had a 2.3s with auto and now have a 3.5is with DCT. I wouldn’t swop back to a manual at any price. But it really is a very personal choice. Some guys on here absolutely love the manual box. You really need to try an auto Z to see if feels right for you. That is the only way you can make an informed choice. Good luck with it, whatever you decide.

Thanks that seems to match others' views. I was worried teh Z might lose something with the auto, maybe it does but might be the best option.

 

[JimsZ]

If its your only car go for it. I have the best of both worlds and being old school love the manual but as has been said not as much fun stuck in traffic. My understanding is all BMW cars will eventually bin off manual its the past unfortunately oke:

It's a summer toy. And the decision is about pain management...! Almost all my dailies since 1975 have been autos.

I use mine daily, I get the knee pain (33 inch inside legs) as I have to rest mine on the footplate on the left of the clutch to get any relief when my knee starts aching. Price im prepared to pay for now... (Meniscus and anterior ligament damage) 40 miles each way each day. Your knee must be really bad for you to need to consider giving it up.

 

[Chris1712]

The 8ZF is probably the best box for day to day driving, very smooth and fast. The DCT is a monster for driving quickly, but a little bit clumsy around town.

Whereabouts are you? If you’re anywhere round Somerset I’d be happy to take you out in my 35iS.

 

[ronk]

,...... but a little bit clumsy around town.

????

 

[Chris1712]

,...... but a little bit clumsy around town.

????

It's a little bit slower to decide gears, and the transition is not as smooth. It's by no means awkward or hard to drive, but it is noticeable worse than the 8ZF.

 

[A1GSS]

The 8ZF is probably the best box for day to day driving, very smooth and fast. The DCT is a monster for driving quickly, but a little bit clumsy around town.

Whereabouts are you? If you’re anywhere round Somerset I’d be happy to take you out in my 35iS.

Hi Chris, that's generous, thank you - I'm in Essex so miles away. bad luck.

I'll try and get a dealer test drive. The 8 speed is only fitted to cars with the 4 pot engines which is a complete non starter, tried the 28 and 20 versions of it, not nice at all.

 

[ronk]

I can’t say I’ve really noticed - gentle / light throttle changes are slower but I think that is to be expected?
The change between forward and reverse does seem to take an age - can’t hurry a three point turn in town.

 

[A1GSS]

Autotrader isn't helping me... older cars in worse condition for more money than mine's worth...

 

[ronk]

Put a call out on the forum!


I seem to remember that john-e89 had a car for sale quite recently !

 

[Busterboo]

The DCT is a monster for driving quickly, but a little bit clumsy around town.

Have you tried the simple re-set that makes the DCT more town-friendly?

Key in.
Press starter briefly (without foot on brake).
Press accelerator to floor for 5 seconds and keep there.
Press starter briefly again.
Release accelerator.