Steptronic v. Automatic on 135 Convertible.....

[speed_demon]

I went up to BMW Seattle to test drive a MZ4 -- but really didn't see a huge difference from my 2006 3.0si. However, I did test drive a 135 that I thought was great. The only problem is that all of the 1-series cars at BMW Seattle have automatic. I've had three roadsters -- all manual, and one 3-series that was automatic. I really didn't like it in the 3-series. The steptronic I test drove seemed pretty quick...but I didn't get to test drive the manuals. It would be easier in city driving not to have to shift of the time. I don't want to buy a steptronic and regret it. Anybody out there who has driven both have an opinion? thanks

[FloydR]

My son has a 335i with manual. Because of the torque, you can get by just leaving it in a gear where the revs are at least 1500.

Note that the auto with the turbo engine is the ZF tranny which shifts faster than the GM in the lesser models.

[seapbmw]

Go for the manual. I have driven both and also a model with the paddle shifters. I liked the paddles (compared to my 2004 3 series with an early version SMG) but the manual is even quicker.

[Stinger9]

so so much more fun! Even if an auto is just as fast, there's nothing like sticking it in a gear and letting the engine pull. Don't get caught at a weak moment and do something you'll regret.
Unless you drive in mucho stop and go, getting caught a few times in traffic is something easily lived thru. I live in NYC and love my six speed.

[BG]

I guess it is possible, but it sure would take a big part of the fun out of such a nimble and quick and sporty car. Don't let someone convince you you need an auto with the lame, "If you do a lot of stop-and-go driving, you need an automatic." The other respondent was correct that with a lot of torque in a light car, you don't need to shift all that often in many circumstances. Seattle is fabulous terrain for a manual, and once you get into the Cascades or Olympics, the fun factor would go way up. Once you get to eastern Washington, you put it in 6th gear and go - that's such a challenge?