real dumb question, but i lost owners manual

[ebelizard]

Yes, i know, this might sound stupid but bear with me.

I own a 92 325i which unfortunately is automatic. My question is that near the shift selector there is a toggle switch with the letters "A" and "M". What exactly does this selector do? i hit it on the highway, and it took off like a rocket from 80- 115 in no time.
If anyone can give me some insight, id greatly appreciate it. Thanks.

 

[Big Daddy]

"A" is automatic mode and "m" is manual or sport mode, raising the shift points for more spiritedf driving.