Automatic vs manual

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Doctor Zaius

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In perusing the local ads for 1994-1998 325i or 328i models I am finding only ONE manual transmission in each fifteen or so ads. I had no idea the automatics dominated the BMW scene...at least in the 3Series sedan models.

I'm locked into the sedan cuz the car MUST satisfy the imposed requirement of a part-time family hauler...so says the 'powers that be.'

Anyway, has anyone driven both versions, and would be willing to provide their opinion on the choice between the two? Drivability, maintainance, etc.

(BTW I've been reading the archives here of the auto transmission rebuilding prices and it's dang depressing to say the least).

It will be a highway commuter car, basically (90% highway, 10% family hauler). I've an older model 911 to get my needed 5-speed driving fix.

Thanks
 
B

Big Daddy

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I had no idea the automatics dominated the BMW scene
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They do not! Maybe there are more autos out there for sale because they are getting up there in the mileage and they do not want to deal with a breakdown. Manuals are by far more popular and durable.
 
selavia

selavia

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I agree with Dan, except much more feverently. If you're happy with a manual, stick with it. (no pun intended).

Durability of the autos on the 3 and 5 series, like durability on anything, varies by user; however, there are quite a few people who experience serious transmission problems with the autos anywhere from 120,000 to 180,000. And if you're a highway driver, those miles will probably add up fairly quickly.
The manuals are much more durable. Mine has over 130k on original clutch, and that seems to be normal for these manuals.

The manual would probably let you enjoy the handling of the car better because it will give you more control. Even though the autos have a "sport" mode, I really don't notice a difference from regular mode.


Also, (this is marrying this to your other post regarding 3 series vs. 5 series) if it's going to be used as a family hauler even 10% of the time, you may want to consider more carefully the roomier 5 series. It's a pain for even kids to sit in my back seat. And the trunk space is not too big if you're going to have to fit the occasional oddly shaped toy / present. And I'll grant that I have a 2-door as opposed to the 4-door, but the room is not all that more spacious in the 4 door.
 
Kirby

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I think there ARE more automatics available on the used market, from what I have seen. Why that is, I don't know, but I think that the % of automatics grew as the 3 series became more popular through the 90s.

I have 2 E36 manuals and one e46 auto. No question that the manuals are more enjoyable to drive when you want to have fun. The manual transmissions just keep on going with no maintenance, the autos don't seem to last near as long.
 
E30m42cab

E30m42cab

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Definately go with a manual... I've driven a 325i auto, and a 328i manual, and I can definately say the 328i was much faster and responsive than the auto... plus, all I hear about auto's is that they crap out on everyone over 200,000km... and they suck.

Manual for sure.
 
jrt67ss350

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I want to echo the OP's sentiments - looking at the used market around here (both E36 and E46), manuals are nearly IMPOSSIBLE to find. They are a dime a dozen in the E30s, but the later models are almost exclusively autos. The entire CPO lot at my local large BMW dealer NEVER has manuals in either 3, 5, or Z series. I haven't even seen a manual E36 M3 around here - the only ones I've seen are autos. It's almost equally difficult to find a manual on the new car lot at the dealer, and those manuals that do exist are only on completely optionless cars.

It has gotten to the point that if you want a manual in your new BMW and don't want a base-level car, then you have to special order it.
 
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Doctor Zaius

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Well I've now driven BOTH the automatic (328i) and manual (325i) and I must say both are marvelous rides. I like the feel of a 5-speed; makes me feel like I'm "working" instead of just along for the ride.

Question to 5-speeders: Does your forearm/elbow ever bump that little flip-up console (I guess it covers a place for your phone, or cup holders, whatever). I found it somewhat annoying that the console was in such close proximity while I was "working."

There are 95 3series sedans (listed in autotrader.com and cars.com) for sale in the LA area; only 13 are 5-speeds. Really reduces the choices of a picky buyer. Oh well.

Does anyone know of additional good places to search for used 3series?
 
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