Looking at M3 vert or C4 cab. Pretty much decided on the Bimmer. Now the question is SMG or 6sp. Some people have preference or negative experiences (primiarily those who have a severe distaste for the SMG).

However, I live in NYC, I will primarily be driving the car during the warmer months to head out east. But, I am certain that I will face a good amount a traffic due to my geographic location. That being said, I have heard stories about the manual/clutch burning out in traffic (a major concern because this will be a pre-owned car) and on the flipside I have heard stories about SMG freezing up.

Can someone who has experience in high traffic areas with SMG/6sp M3 give me some insight as to what makes the most logical sense?

Thank you for your input.

Best,

Greg

 

6psd.

 

Nothing like a 6 speed.

 

6speed

 

SMG, coming from an SMG owner. Obviously the stick guys are going to say stick. SMG is much more convenient if you're going to be in a lot of traffic.

 

SMG, no doubt about it, DCT even better. Either way different strokes.

 

Manual/Clutch should not burn out in traffic if you drive properly. The stock E46 M has been known to easily last 100k+ miles on it. You have to drive both to decide, but just remember SMG repair is a lot more than 6 Speed repair.

 

There is an emission recall on the 2003 and up. Updated SMG programming is also being included. The new programming is very nice.

 

Personal preference. Drive both. I had an SMG and loved it. Everyone is going to give you an opinion on this, just drive them both.

I am now driving a VW GTI with the DSG transmission and I wish I would have gotten the 6sp, while I wouldn't have traded my SMG for the world.

 

Get the 3 pedal arrangement.

I have the SMG an its fun sure for the first 2 weeks than you start to hate it. Manual is the only way to go in cars like these!!!!!

 

SMG for traffic

 

6spd

 

6sp end of conversation.

 

6 speed is all i would ever buy, but it is a preference thing.

 

i drove both and hated the jerkiness of the SMG, they say you get used to it but i went the safe route and got the 6spd, i dont regret it