Stickshift Drivers!!!

gm325xi · 11-06-2012, 04:28 PM

i am considering trading in my 2006 325 for a 330 and was thinking about getting a stick. what are your inputs about the build quality? But more importantly is it more enjoyable than the automatic? I can drive stickshift but i am just a little confused on which transmission i want.

abhishriv · 11-06-2012, 04:30 PM

ive driven auto my whole life until my BMW... i love driving manual now and would never have it another way.. especially on a bmw.

90SLOWE · 11-06-2012, 04:32 PM

i have a stick shift and i love it.. in fact all the cars i have had till date have been manuals. i have a 330i and i recommend it

gm325xi · 11-06-2012, 04:34 PM

thanks for the input guys. i learned to drive in a stickshift so i kinda want to go back to that haha. auto is kinda boring for me.

ES_TRADER · 11-06-2012, 04:52 PM

Three on a tree and you never go back

GoRomeo · 11-06-2012, 04:56 PM

I have a 330i AUTO/STEPTRONIC and I am happy with it... I dont race anyone or red line my car but I know some kids like that. I used to have manual but dont miss it especially when you are in traffic... cheers!

N8N · 11-06-2012, 05:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ES_TRADER

Three on a tree and you never go back

BWAHAHAHA! heck yeah, nothing says pure driving pleasure like having to grind reverse to find neutral, or popping the hood to jiggle your crossed-up shift linkage so you can find a gear that works again

But seriously, I really like my MT the only complaint I have is the numb clutch feel. I had the same complaint years ago on my '86 535i, don't know why the BMW clutch pedals give next to no tactile feedback when the whirly bits touch each other.

Roowah · 11-06-2012, 05:04 PM

I love my 6MT. Every car I've bought, I've had a manual transmission. I special ordered this one when new because most dealers don't stock many. Sure occasionally it's a pain in Boston traffic, but it's a small price to pay. Unfortunately, manuals are a dying breed. I was even thinking of replacing my 330i in the future with possibly an X3, but I see that there's no longer an option for anything other than an automatic. Scratched off the list.

Digtlartst · 11-06-2012, 05:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gm325xi

i am considering trading in my 2006 325 for a 330 and was thinking about getting a stick. what are your inputs about the build quality? But more importantly is it more enjoyable than the automatic? I can drive stickshift but i am just a little confused on which transmission i want.

If by build quality you mean reliability/longevity, the manual is better.

Fun factor -- no comparison: 6MT.

Envuks · 11-06-2012, 05:54 PM

Been driving a manual for the past 10 or so years (since I went from an SUV to a sports car). I lived in the city for a good portion of that.... I wouldn't even consider an auto. Not for a second.

JDane07 · 11-06-2012, 06:05 PM

Why not go all in and get a 335i with a MT?

gm325xi · 11-06-2012, 06:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JDane07

Why not go all in and get a 335i with a MT?

i would but its a little too much for me in price.

Eric335 · 11-06-2012, 06:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gm325xi

i would but its a little too much for me in price.

The 330i is a solid machine with a 6MT. Id still suggest looking for a used 07-08 335i. Im glad i got mine

Now if only it didnt misfire...

As for the 6MT, i highly suggest it over the 6AT. At times, it becomes annoying, but for the most part, i love it. I live in the city btw.

atown88 · 11-06-2012, 07:06 PM

I've driven a MT for 4 years before getting into my AT 328. While I love the car, I still regret not getting a MT. "Manual" mode is ok, but nothing beats the throttle response and feel of rowing through gears in a manual.

Philz BMW · 11-06-2012, 07:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Envuks

Been driving a manual for the past 10 or so years (since I went from an SUV to a sports car). I lived in the city for a good portion of that.... I wouldn't even consider an auto. Not for a second.

Not even if someone tossed you the keys to this?

Quote:

The transmission is a dual-clutch direct-shift gearbox computer-controlled automatic with seven gear ratios, with magnesium paddles behind the steering wheel and a shift time of less than 150 milliseconds, built by Ricardo of England rather than Borg-Warner, who designed the six speed DSG used in the mainstream Volkswagen Group marques.

GChase · 11-06-2012, 09:35 PM

The one thing I regret is not getting a 6MT. I thought I'd have a bit of traffic, but it's gotten significantly better this year. Definitely go for it. My dad made fun of me and said "He'd never get a BMW without a manual" (He has a manual E46 and S2000)

Bimmer07 · 11-06-2012, 09:46 PM

Ive been driving stick shift since i was 16. Go for it!! However i recommend trying to push it to a 335i. More fun!

Zero.7 · 11-06-2012, 10:05 PM

Although auto trannies have come a long way, I still prefer a manual transmission. To me, it's just more engaging. I think you'll hear more people regretting not getting a 6MT versus the other way around.

So if you are even thinking about a manual transmission, DO IT!

jwzimm · 11-06-2012, 11:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by N8N

Quote:

Originally Posted by ES_TRADER

Three on a tree and you never go back

BWAHAHAHA! heck yeah, nothing says pure driving pleasure like having to grind reverse to find neutral, or popping the hood to jiggle your crossed-up shift linkage so you can find a gear that works again

But seriously, I really like my MT the only complaint I have is the numb clutch feel. I had the same complaint years ago on my '86 535i, don't know why the BMW clutch pedals give next to no tactile feedback when the whirly bits touch each other.

You should look in to a CDV delete. It really makes the clutch feel like it should.

captainaudio · 11-06-2012, 11:49 PM

If you feel that you will enjoy driving an MT more than an AT then by all means get an MT.

CA

chenx15 · 11-06-2012, 11:52 PM

manual = fun. actually you stop noticing driving manual when you get use to it.

driverman · 11-07-2012, 07:06 AM

I drove MT's for the 1st 20 years, then AT's for the next 20 years. After driving MT's as rentals during 3 trips to Europe and loving it, I decided to go back to MT's. So my last 2 cars have been MT's.

I like driving MT's much better because I am more involved and have more control of my car. And I never stop trying to perfect my shifts. And the MT should last longer. And it sounds better than a 328i AT I had as a loaner. I heard something besides the engine when I revved it - probably the torque converter?

If I was to buy an M3 or 335is, I would seriously consider a DCT. I'd drive the DCT back to back with the 6MT and make my decision. My main concern about the DCT is that is it more expensive, more complicated and new, which might mean more repairs down the road. I plan on keeping my car for many years.

11-06-2012, 04:28 PM	#1
gm325xi Private 8 Rep 67 Posts Drives: 325XI Join Date: Sep 2012 Location: USA iTrader: (0)	Stickshift Drivers!!! i am considering trading in my 2006 325 for a 330 and was thinking about getting a stick. what are your inputs about the build quality? But more importantly is it more enjoyable than the automatic? I can drive stickshift but i am just a little confused on which transmission i want.
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11-06-2012, 04:30 PM	#2
abhishriv Major 100 Rep 1,384 Posts Drives: 2007 335i Coupe (Space grey) Join Date: Oct 2011 Location: Toronto iTrader: (0)	ive driven auto my whole life until my BMW... i love driving manual now and would never have it another way.. especially on a bmw.
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11-06-2012, 04:32 PM	#3
90SLOWE Private 18 Rep 88 Posts Drives: F30 328i Join Date: May 2012 Location: Dublin, CA iTrader: (0) Garage List 2006 330i [0.00]	i have a stick shift and i love it.. in fact all the cars i have had till date have been manuals. i have a 330i and i recommend it
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11-06-2012, 04:34 PM	#4
gm325xi Private 8 Rep 67 Posts Drives: 325XI Join Date: Sep 2012 Location: USA iTrader: (0)	thanks for the input guys. i learned to drive in a stickshift so i kinda want to go back to that haha. auto is kinda boring for me.
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11-06-2012, 04:52 PM	#5
ES_TRADER Colonel 344 Rep 2,928 Posts Drives: 328i, 335i, M3, 535i, X5, 36M Join Date: Oct 2010 Location: OC iTrader: (3) Garage List 2014 Ford Raptor [0.00] 2012 328i E92 [10.00] 2013 X5 [0.00] 2013 335i F30 [8.00] 1990 Toyota Previa [0.00] 1997 E36 M3 [10.00] 2011 E92 M3 [0.00] 2011 535i [0.00]	Three on a tree and you never go back
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11-06-2012, 04:56 PM	#6
GoRomeo Brigadier General 962 Rep 3,850 Posts Drives: 330i, 135i Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: San Diego CA iTrader: (0) Garage List 2008 BMW 135i [9.50] 2006 330i [6.75]	I have a 330i AUTO/STEPTRONIC and I am happy with it... I dont race anyone or red line my car but I know some kids like that. I used to have manual but dont miss it especially when you are in traffic... cheers!
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11-06-2012, 05:04 PM	#8
Roowah Captain 28 Rep 811 Posts Drives: 2006 E90 330i 6MT Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Cambridge, MA iTrader: (0)	I love my 6MT. Every car I've bought, I've had a manual transmission. I special ordered this one when new because most dealers don't stock many. Sure occasionally it's a pain in Boston traffic, but it's a small price to pay. Unfortunately, manuals are a dying breed. I was even thinking of replacing my 330i in the future with possibly an X3, but I see that there's no longer an option for anything other than an automatic. Scratched off the list. __________________ 2006 E90 330i 6MT: TiAg\|Black Leather\|Poplar Trim\|Premium Package\|Cold Weather Package 2003 E46 325i 5MT: Retired - The beginning of my BMW obsession!
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11-06-2012, 05:54 PM	#10
Envuks Captain 26 Rep 741 Posts Drives: '08 e92 335xi Join Date: Apr 2012 Location: MA iTrader: (2)	Been driving a manual for the past 10 or so years (since I went from an SUV to a sports car). I lived in the city for a good portion of that.... I wouldn't even consider an auto. Not for a second. __________________ Jet black e92 6mt 335xi: 18" BBS RGRs, KW v1, ESS Stage 2 flash, VRSF 7" FMIC, VRSF downpipes, JG Mods m-tech front, mtec V3 AEs, BMS OCC, hardwired valentine 1, p3cars gauge, amber delete, sport seats, factory oil cooler.
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11-06-2012, 06:05 PM	#11
JDane07 Lieutenant Colonel 143 Rep 1,720 Posts Drives: 330i (sold), MK7 GTI Join Date: Nov 2011 Location: Napa, CA iTrader: (3)	Why not go all in and get a 335i with a MT? __________________ Current Ride: '16 MK7 GTI// Former Ride: '06 E90 330i// Don't mind me... just passing along// Old E90 Thread: http://www.e90post.com/forums/showth...first+e90+m580
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11-06-2012, 07:06 PM	#14
atown88 Major 46 Rep 1,487 Posts Drives: e90 M3 Join Date: Apr 2010 Location: Auburn iTrader: (0)	I've driven a MT for 4 years before getting into my AT 328. While I love the car, I still regret not getting a MT. "Manual" mode is ok, but nothing beats the throttle response and feel of rowing through gears in a manual.
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11-06-2012, 09:35 PM	#16
GChase Captain 37 Rep 701 Posts Drives: 2009 E90 328i Join Date: Jul 2012 Location: Louisville, KY iTrader: (0)	The one thing I regret is not getting a 6MT. I thought I'd have a bit of traffic, but it's gotten significantly better this year. Definitely go for it. My dad made fun of me and said "He'd never get a BMW without a manual" (He has a manual E46 and S2000)
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11-06-2012, 09:46 PM	#17
Bimmer07 Lieutenant 282 Rep 497 Posts Drives: G80 Join Date: Nov 2012 Location: Los Angeles iTrader: (1)	Ive been driving stick shift since i was 16. Go for it!! However i recommend trying to push it to a 335i. More fun!
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11-06-2012, 10:05 PM	#18
Zero.7 Colonel 97 Rep 2,415 Posts Drives: F30 340i AW M-Sport Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: SOCAL iTrader: (6)	Although auto trannies have come a long way, I still prefer a manual transmission. To me, it's just more engaging. I think you'll hear more people regretting not getting a 6MT versus the other way around. So if you are even thinking about a manual transmission, DO IT! __________________ '16 f30 AW 340i M-sport 8-speed Auto BMW ///M Performance Power and Sound Kit with Carbon Tips / Gloss Black Performance grilles
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11-06-2012, 11:49 PM	#20
captainaudio World's Foremost Authority 1181 Rep 4,535 Posts Drives: M4 Cab - Cayenne GTS - Jag XK Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Upper East Side Manhattan - Boca Raton FL - Lime Rock CT iTrader: (0)	If you feel that you will enjoy driving an MT more than an AT then by all means get an MT. CA
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11-06-2012, 11:52 PM	#21
chenx15 Lieutenant 43 Rep 545 Posts Drives: 335i/accord Join Date: Jan 2010 Location: yyz iTrader: (1)	manual = fun. actually you stop noticing driving manual when you get use to it. __________________ FS:OEM e90 LCI Kindey Grills and OEM AW Rear Bumper http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=461040 http://www.e90post.com/forums/showth...87#post8729087
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11-07-2012, 07:06 AM	#22
driverman Captain 38 Rep 715 Posts Drives: 2008 328i 6MT - SOLD Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: El Dorado Hills, CA iTrader: (0)	I drove MT's for the 1st 20 years, then AT's for the next 20 years. After driving MT's as rentals during 3 trips to Europe and loving it, I decided to go back to MT's. So my last 2 cars have been MT's. I like driving MT's much better because I am more involved and have more control of my car. And I never stop trying to perfect my shifts. And the MT should last longer. And it sounds better than a 328i AT I had as a loaner. I heard something besides the engine when I revved it - probably the torque converter? If I was to buy an M3 or 335is, I would seriously consider a DCT. I'd drive the DCT back to back with the 6MT and make my decision. My main concern about the DCT is that is it more expensive, more complicated and new, which might mean more repairs down the road. I plan on keeping my car for many years.
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