Commute Getting Longer: 6MT -> DCT or Change it Up?

[CanAutM3]

Originally Posted by cotmfk

Especially since BMW recently announced the M2 is the last M car with a manual. wtf.

Do you have any references to that ?

Last I read/heard is that the next gen M3/4 will still be offered with a traditional manual transmission.

[CSanto]

Took delivery of my zcp/dct car this passed Saturday.
Best Decision, I love it.

[cotmfk]

Originally Posted by CanAutM3

Do you have any references to that ?

Last I read/heard is that the next gen M3/4 will still be offered with a traditional manual transmission.

The story broke last week:

http://www.bmwblog.com/2017/10/20/bm...anual-gearbox/

http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/fa...y-be-the-last/

There's a lot more out there via google.

[mrfox]

Originally Posted by cotmfk

The story broke last week:

http://www.bmwblog.com/2017/10/20/bm...anual-gearbox/

http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/fa...y-be-the-last/

There's a lot more out there via google.

Ouch. Glad I got mine when I did.

[Circuit Hunter]

I don't like the rubbery gearbox or soft clutch in the F8X but if one was set on a manual this is probably the best manual for commuting. Not sure if that is the best sales pitch...

[cotmfk]

Originally Posted by Circuit Hunter

I don't like the rubbery gearbox or soft clutch in the F8X but if one was set on a manual this is probably the best manual for commuting. Not sure if that is the best sales pitch...

Easily fixed with short throw shifter and after market clutch.

[cotmfk]

Originally Posted by mrfox

Ouch. Glad I got mine when I did.

Me too!

[Circuit Hunter]

Originally Posted by cotmfk

Easily fixed with short throw shifter and after market clutch.

Perhaps, but that sounds expensive. I was blown away how bad the manual feels in stock form from a performance standpoint. It is comfy though.

[cotmfk]

Your comment sounds a lot like trolling - but I'll take the bait for now:

Most people like the lighter clutches and dislike heavy clutches. (Personally I'm fine with heavy clutches. I usually end up with aftermarket clutches to handle the power increase anyways. For example, I think 6-puck clutches are a lot of fun and rewarding.)

A short throw shifter is only $200-400. If you can't afford that then maybe you are not in the right car.

[Circuit Hunter]

Originally Posted by cotmfk

Your comment sounds a lot like trolling - but I'll take the bait for now:

Most people like the lighter clutches and dislike heavy clutches. (Personally I'm fine with heavy clutches. I usually end up with aftermarket clutches to handle the power increase anyways. For example, I think 6-puck clutches are a lot of fun and rewarding.)

A short throw shifter is only $200-400. If you can't afford that then maybe you are not in the right car.

Not trolling at all. My first comment in this thread was stating that the manual in this platform is good for commuting because of the rubbery feel and soft clutch. It's easy to drive and would be easily tolerable in traffic but compromises the performance and feel in comparison to other manual equipped cars. Commuting aside, I do not like this manual in stock form, I much prefer a more aggressive engagement like a Tremec, P-car, S2000, etc.

Perhaps for me an AKG shifter would improve upon the "feel" and performance but you also mentioned a heavy clutch and there is no way with parts and labor this would be a cheap option.

Please know my comments are coming from a manual car owner of many years. What makes the DCT so good in this platform is the versatility and performance that it offers. It is smooth when operated like an auto or it can be machine gun quick allowing for boost pressure to be maintained (power) under acceleration. Additionally, unlike traditional autos the DCT downshifts without hiccups.

[Tommy L Garage]

If you’re even contemplating it, then go with DCT.

In my mind those who love manuals will always get a manual and put up with traffic, long commutes etc. there will never be any doubts.

I’m already worried what my next car will be, since so few car companies offer manuals nowadays. I’m starting to think my only option will be a 911...and it sucks for hauling kids.

[cotmfk]

Originally Posted by Circuit Hunter

Not trolling at all. My first comment in this thread was stating that the manual in this platform is good for commuting because of the rubbery feel and soft clutch. It's easy to drive and would be easily tolerable in traffic but compromises the performance and feel in comparison to other manual equipped cars. Commuting aside, I do not like this manual in stock form, I much prefer a more aggressive engagement like a Tremec, P-car, S2000, etc.

Perhaps for me an AKG shifter would improve upon the "feel" and performance but you also mentioned a heavy clutch and there is no way with parts and labor this would be a cheap option.

Please know my comments are coming from a manual car owner of many years. What makes the DCT so good in this platform is the versatility and performance that it offers. It is smooth when operated like an auto or it can be machine gun quick allowing for boost pressure to be maintained (power) under acceleration. Additionally, unlike traditional autos the DCT downshifts without hiccups.

Cool. Sounds like I mis-interpreted the comments. Everyone is definitely entitled to their opinions. And as far as driving DCT vs. manual, it's definitely an opinion as to which is more fun. (not which is faster - I know manual loses that one! hahaha) I'm sure I will end up with a DCT at some point - as manuals are being phased out. I'll just enjoy them as long as I can!

[shay2nak]

I'm actually surprised by the rubbery feel of the shifter. Tried one out at the dealer last week. Neither one of my other cars are like this. Usually only shitboxes have rubber shifters. Last one I had was my 97 Civic EX coupe.

And the clutch pedal travel is quite long. I'm guessing you only need to depress it half way.

[pomsaeng]

Still, 6MT all day long! I drive 80 miles a day and sit in terrible traffic in Philly.

[Damage Inc]

I would keep the manual. Its a pretty soft gearbox to drive (light clutch, etc) and the shifter is pretty easy. You can always get a DCT in the future but the days to drive a manual are limited.

Plus there is something sexy about a 4 door sport sedan w manual. DCT is very predictable

[basscadet]

BMW shifters have been rubbery and vague since the 90s. It’s very ironic that one of the last car makers to offer manuals in their sports sedan is notorious for having some of the least satisfying manual experiences.

[basscadet]

Originally Posted by shay2nak

I'm actually surprised by the rubbery feel of the shifter. Tried one out at the dealer last week. Neither one of my other cars are like this. Usually only shitboxes have rubber shifters. Last one I had was my 97 Civic EX coupe.

And the clutch pedal travel is quite long. I'm guessing you only need to depress it half way.

They’re all awful. Go drive a 6 speed in a 997 GT3 or a Mustang GT350. That’s how it should be done.

[shay2nak]

Originally Posted by basscadet

They’re all awful. Go drive a 6 speed in a 997 GT3 or a Mustang GT350. That’s how it should be done.

Now that I've gotten my car and driven it around a few times, I must say that the shifter feel is growing on me. I haven't gotten on the car yet as I only have 47 mi so far, but it's not bad. Now I notice how the shifter is a bit further away from the driver than I'd like. In other words, BMW should have moved the shifter closer to the steering wheel by an inch or so.

[cbertels]

I haven't driven the manual F8x in any traffic but I do have a DCT. It can be a little jerky when in slow stop and go traffic. I imagine the manual would be a little smoother. I typically shift to second and skip first and it smooths out the lurching.

[al3xander]

I drive my 6MT in Chicago traffic all the time and my 18 mile each way commute which includes 5-6 miles each way of local driving and never once have I thought to my self... man I'm tired of 6MT in this traffic or wished I got a DCT.

[captainaudio]

I have a DCT in my M4 and have no issues but I commuted in NYC traffic and drove in DC traffic for years with MT cars and never minded it or wish I had an AT.