[Ninjaoz]

steptronic is not really a manual as such, it is a semi-automatic using a torque converter rather than a proper clutch. a DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) that is used in a M3 is another type of gearbox which utilises two separate clutches for odd and even gear sets!

[Jeef Beef]

Originally Posted by anonymousmoose

Just a quick one, I thought all 320i's had manually transmission capabilities? Are there not shifters behind the steering wheel? If so, wouldn't putting an auto into manual mode do it the same? (once again, I love cars but dont know much about the engineering side).

The ZF transmission in the 320i is simply a conventional torque converter slushbox with 'manual override'. This means that putting the gearlever in Manual mode allows you to essentially tell the computer when you want it to change gears in its planetary gearset. It's a lot like pushing buttons in a video game.

A manual transmission has a clutch as the physical connection between the engine and wheels. The gear level is physically connected to the gearbox. When you move the lever, you are physically connecting and disconnecting gears within the transmission. There are also 3 pedals in a manual car as opposed to 2 in an auto.

The DCT tranny in the M3/335i/135i is a completely different story. The setup is essentially a manual transmission (with two clutches rather than one) operated by a computer. Steptronics on the other hand are 'automatic' transmissions in every sense of the word, with 'manual override' programming.

The reason Ninja333 feels that his 6AT and 6MT 320i's are completely different cars is because of the factors mentioned above. A torque converter is a fluid coupling which tends to 'waste' power generated by the engine when the input shaft is not rotating at the same speed as the output shaft. Gearchanges are also 'slurred' by the torque converter. The manual override function doesn't change the nature and feel of a steptronic transmission, it merely allows the driver to have some input on when gearchanges should occur.

The solid physical connection offered by a clutch in a manual transmission however, offers a much more direct 'feel' between the engine and the wheels. There's less power lost when compared to a torque converter and there's no computer programming involved at all for gearchanges. It's just you and the gearbox. Simply grab the lever, slam it into the gear you want, release the clutch and off you go. This inherent control offered by the car is probably why the OP finds it so fun.

Anyway Ninja, PROPS TO YOU for finding a 3er in 6MT! The 2.0L definitely needs one to make most of the power delivery. Good find.

EDIT: also, if I am reading this thread correctly, did you just buy two 3ers within the space of one week?

[Ninjaoz]

Originally Posted by Jeef Beef

Anyway Ninja, PROPS TO YOU for finding a 3er in 6MT! The 2.0L definitely needs one to make most of the power delivery. Good find.

EDIT: also, if I am reading this thread correctly, did you just buy two 3ers within the space of one week?

no we didn't end up getting the '08 M sport pack, got this manual 320i LCI instead as the dealer offered us a really good deal on the trade-in for the X3.

i really enjoy driving this 320i, it is like riding my first 250cc...

[mmmmQuattro]

Man, I would loved to have gotten a 320 in a manual.
Hey, Ninja333, would you be interested in a used set of 193M's 18"?
I will probably put my 225M's on my wife's 320 when I get my new wheels.

[Ninjaoz]

Originally Posted by jp330Cic.au

Hey, Ninja333, would you be interested in a used set of 193M's 18"?
I will probably put my 225M's on my wife's 320 when I get my new wheels.

yes, i'd be very interested in a set of 193M!

[cruvon]

Originally Posted by Ninja333

thanks John. Took a couple of pics this morning:

it is completely stock with 16" runcrap! LOL

nice and the Euro plates make it look smart, bigger wheels would make it perfect

[johnnydad]

Welcome to the teeny wheel club

Actually they aren't too bad to clean and the 16's/standard suspension give a nice ride and still wonderful handling. If I find a set of 17" 161's I'd be tempted to upgrade.

Still love the Alpine White. Have you treated the paintwork to any waxes etc yet?

[Ninjaoz]

niceeee...these are the exact same wheels, match your car really well! yes i love the comfort ride and yet very predictable and chuckable around corners

yeah had a quick wash, followed by clay, a layer of Opti-seal and synthetic wax.

[cruvon]

Originally Posted by johnnydad

Welcome to the teeny wheel club

Actually they aren't too bad to clean and the 16's/standard suspension give a nice ride and still wonderful handling. If I find a set of 17" 161's I'd be tempted to upgrade.

Still love the Alpine White. Have you treated the paintwork to any waxes etc yet?

wheels go well with this one