Thread: 6mt vs 8 auto
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      12-15-2012, 04:25 PM   #5
logiclee
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Drives: BMW 116i
Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: Notts, UK

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Not driven a M135i but have driven several manual f20's.

The manual gearbox is ok and just ok. It is springy and rubbery as described and doesn't liked tobe rushed. This is true especially when cold as first and second can be very stiff.
On Right Hand Drive models the clutch pedal is offset which doesnt help.

As for the zf 8 speed auto? I have owned slow shifting slurry conventional autos, automated single clutch manuals, and the latest dual clutch boxes from VW. The zf 8 speed beats them all easily, it's smooth when you want it to be but lightning quick and direct when it needs to be. Manual changes are delivered the instant you ask for them and change speeds are not far off dct quick.

The uk Top Gear team are known for their love of a manual box and for how they hate flappy paddle boxes. But after a few laps of a race circuit they said the auto was "Brilliant". After testing theM135i auto they awarded it sports car of the year.

It's down to personal choice but it is not as clear cut as it was just a few years ago.

Cheers
Lee
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