BMW and M Power Owners
- Thread starter panthro
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I thought all BMW Autos were now DCT?
Just there are some different software modes.
The basic one is quite soft but still quick to change.
Then there is the sport mode option which gives quicker shifting and flappy paddles.
Then there is the m-sport option which makes the shifts feel more like a proper sequential, but is only available on the proper M models (ie, M3/M4/M5/M6 but not the likes of 335i m-sport or similar).
Just there are some different software modes.
The basic one is quite soft but still quick to change.
Then there is the sport mode option which gives quicker shifting and flappy paddles.
Then there is the m-sport option which makes the shifts feel more like a proper sequential, but is only available on the proper M models (ie, M3/M4/M5/M6 but not the likes of 335i m-sport or similar).
As far as I'm aware and I'd wait for the knowledge fountain Fox to prove me wrong but the majority of BMW automatics are the ZF auto box either in 6 speed or 8 speed form. Generally the ZF boxes are good for what they are on cruisers and are more than good enough in platypus's situation.
The Dual Clutch transmissions on the other hand are limited to the 35i engines on I believe the 3/4 and Z series and all M cars.
Are the DCT's faster? Of course but not really necessary on non-sporty cars which is why I imagine BMW limit it to 35i and above engines.
Well as I might be buying an older model it'd be good to know what definitely to avoid.
I'd wait for Fox to reply per my point above.
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That's not the way I recognise it.
As far as I'm aware, the proper M models (not M-Sport) get their own gearboxes (DCT).
The older models like the E60 / E90 (like you linked to above) have the older ZF 6 speed box, the one I referred to as sluggish, and using fuel. I had this in my 335d, and while it wasn't bad, it wasn't impressive either.
The newer models have the ZF 8 speed, which is a fantastic gearbox. And can come with or without the Sports "map". I have this in my 530d in Sports Auto guise. And is the gearbox I referred to as "wouldn't want a manual instead" above.
Personally, if you have the budget to go for the F10 over the E60, I'd do it. Without hesitation. It's a far superior car.
As said above, the M-Sport is a different trim level rather than different mechanicals. The only real mechanical difference is the M-Sport springs. Other than that, it is bumpers, steering wheel, seats, headlining etc... Personally, I'd rather have the M-Sport, but probably not at the cost of certain spec. For example, I'd probably be happy enough with an SE if it had Pro Nav, decent speakers, reversing camera, black panel display etc... That sort of stuff. But if it's just a poverty spec SE just to get into the newer model, I'd maybe reconsider.
As far as I'm aware, the proper M models (not M-Sport) get their own gearboxes (DCT).
The older models like the E60 / E90 (like you linked to above) have the older ZF 6 speed box, the one I referred to as sluggish, and using fuel. I had this in my 335d, and while it wasn't bad, it wasn't impressive either.
The newer models have the ZF 8 speed, which is a fantastic gearbox. And can come with or without the Sports "map". I have this in my 530d in Sports Auto guise. And is the gearbox I referred to as "wouldn't want a manual instead" above.
Personally, if you have the budget to go for the F10 over the E60, I'd do it. Without hesitation. It's a far superior car.
As said above, the M-Sport is a different trim level rather than different mechanicals. The only real mechanical difference is the M-Sport springs. Other than that, it is bumpers, steering wheel, seats, headlining etc... Personally, I'd rather have the M-Sport, but probably not at the cost of certain spec. For example, I'd probably be happy enough with an SE if it had Pro Nav, decent speakers, reversing camera, black panel display etc... That sort of stuff. But if it's just a poverty spec SE just to get into the newer model, I'd maybe reconsider.
![[TW]Fox](/data/man-of-honor/2009.png){kind=avatar}
DCT is only available on (proper) M cars (i.e. not M135i/M235i) and the Z4 35is, but the ZF 8 speed is an excellent auto box.
See my subsequent post I wasn't specific but yes the main point is that it is only available on a small selection of cars and agreed the ZF 8 speed auto is excellent.
15k absolutely would buy an M car, albeit a much older one. But for someone in the market for a 2.0 diesel, they're not even something that should be in your conscience
Its also on the regular 35i Z4 and the 335i coupe and presumably the 435i.
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Whats metallic BMW paint like when it comes to stone chips?
I am considering getting my first BMW after many years of Audi's. I quite like the Black Sapphire Metallic paint, but wondered if you guys have any opinions on how hard the paint is when it comes to stone chip resistance?
Of course all cars suffer from this, but in my experience the Audi's with metallic paint seem to hold up quite well to stone chips. Any thoughts / opinions appreciated.
I am considering getting my first BMW after many years of Audi's. I quite like the Black Sapphire Metallic paint, but wondered if you guys have any opinions on how hard the paint is when it comes to stone chip resistance?
Of course all cars suffer from this, but in my experience the Audi's with metallic paint seem to hold up quite well to stone chips. Any thoughts / opinions appreciated.
My old >270k mile 528 had remarkably few chips given the mileage, my 15yr old 530 only has a few on the front too, you'd hope modern ones will be improved upon....