[jojojijijojo]

Hi all,

This might be an obvious question, but I'm only focusing on downshifts here using DCT VS torque converter. I know that e9x M3's and N52 engine cars have different engines and all, but what is the main reason that makes an M3 engine have punchier and meaner downshifts vs dull n52 torque converter?

When you downshift an n52 automatic it sounds like a vacuum cleaner, but when you downshift an M3 with DCT it is much punchier before the RPM ramps down.

Is this mainly due to how DCT transmissions work?

[jojojijijojo]

In other words, I think its the throttle blip on downshifting, which the standard ZF transmission doesn't seems to be doing.

[michaelalex17]

By definition a DCT has a second clutch. This second clutch is essentially pre selecting that lower gear for the downshift which makes the shift significantly snappier than that of a traditional torque converter.

Further the snappiness is associated with how much clutch slippage is being allowed. The DCT in S3 is allowing less clutch slippage which provides more driveline shock which is creating that power shift sensation that isn't occurring in a traditional torque converted auto.

[Biginboca]

I think it’s the speed of the engagement, which you likely can’t get with the automatic in the n52. With my manual N52 I can get a very aggressive bark on downshifts which many people have compared to the e92m3. Once I go lighter flywheel I expect it to be even more punchy. It has to do with the speed of the rev matching that a quick engagement causes.