Input please

bfi2906 · 03-20-2009, 01:01 AM

My dealer is making noises about the potential non-availability of the car we agreed on, which has the potential to make the wait much longer than expected. For a variety of reasons (not just my impatience) this creates quite an issue. As a back up plan, he's asked me to consider an auto - because there are more available than manuals -- that probably says something.

I've never owned an auto - i just like driving a manual - particularly BMW manuals. I've always been of the view that -- If I want something to steer, that's full of wood -- I'll buy a boat. (No offence intended to anyone)

That said, i know auto's have improved hugely in recent times, so do't want to completely dismiss the option based on my old-fashioned view.

So my question is, what's an auto 135 coupe like to drive and own? Is it fun to drive? Does it "blip" on the down-shift? Is the driver really in control, or only until the car decides to take over? Do you "feel" the car like you do with a manual? Can you "feather" the throttle when you're cornering at speed? Etc, Etc, Etc

Thanks for feedback.
B.

BBK · 03-20-2009, 01:35 AM

Have you already put a deposit down on the car?

Anyways... I haven't picked my car up yet, but I thought the auto was pretty darn good. I usually drive manuals but I am getting lazy nowadays and the auto in the 135i was very good. Yes, it does blip on downshift, it's very addictive! Frankly, I feel the car more sometimes in an auto because all my concentration and senses (hands) are on the steering wheel. It changes reasonably quick too. I won't say it's better than a manual, but it's definately a great option.

Wish I could give you more of an idea but it's been a while since I test drove it... And I had driven the manual before the auto to compare. Hope this helps!

ps - But if you are wanting a manual, then I would not settle because your dealer stuffed up. Can you search other dealers for a similar spec'd car and buy from them?

Breville · 03-20-2009, 04:03 AM

I test drove the auto and thought it was OK, but bought the manual because it was the only real option for me. I never actually tested the manual and am thoroughly pleased with it. It's even easier now they have the hill hold feature when in gear.

bfi2906 · 03-20-2009, 08:05 AM

Thanks for the feedback guys.

BBK -- yes I have given them a deposit, but the contract states that it's contingent on them being able to get the car - so I was aware of it at the time. I'm not concerned about the deposit -- if they can't secure the car, then the contract is void, and I get my $ back. It's more the inconvenience than anything, which involves the rego and finance on my trade -- trust me, it's a little involved.

You're right about other dealers - and that's tomorrows job.

I'm still of two minds about the auto - any other views would be appreciated.

B.

ZedClever · 03-20-2009, 08:28 AM

Ive always had manuals. My last car was the vw gli, with tiptronic dsg. I test drove both the auto and manual 135. The auto was very similar to the dsg, shifts in .04, super smooth, less engaging to drive in D. The manual was the choice for me. I just feel more connected to the driving that way, which for me is why I bought the car in the first place. The clutch and shift distance are great as well.

TP 135i · 03-20-2009, 08:41 AM

I have a manual 135i and an automatic Cayman S.........
I prefer to drive the 135i...........
Enough said.

Get the manual.

Zuzu · 03-20-2009, 03:36 PM

The 135 would have to be the easiest manual you will ever drive..

Great gear box, light clutch and smooth shifting.. Even in traffic its still a pleasure.

And the hill start is a bonus I didnt know about until delivery as I purchased back in March 08 with no test drive.

Alpine* · 03-20-2009, 07:41 PM

Manual definitely IMO, then if the auto was a DCT then maybe not.

oh yeh it is cheaper too

bobbynoway · 03-20-2009, 10:56 PM

When you are paying big bucks for this car do not compromise on your preferences.
Get the car that you want. Trust me you will be better off in the long run.

TSiggs · 03-20-2009, 11:35 PM

I was in the same wood boat as you.

Dealer had the exact car I wanted but with auto. I will tell you as far as autos go, it is very good. DS mode was pretty fun. What made me change my mind is I felt like I wasn't in control, almost at a loss when selecting gears...what gear am I in again? Let me glance at the indicator...yah, not a pleasant feeling.

While I'm sure it would have been fine after I acclimated, I was worried it would get boring after the novelty wore off. I'm now halfway through my wait on my 6mt. I'm not going to lie, it's been very painful.

Good luck, and I hope you make the right decision.

WOPALX · 03-21-2009, 12:47 AM

AT's will hold boost between gear changes resulting in faster QT mile times generally if that's your poison.

But MT would be a more engaging drive.

Shame the e90 did not come in an MT, as i would have chosen the MT. That said the sport mode is lots of fun & I don't think i'm missing out on that much.

End of the day get what you really want, even if the wait is longer.

2bob · 03-21-2009, 03:22 AM

I bought an auto because my wife sometimes drives the 135.I find once you get used to the paddles its great to drive and on the recent Southern Highlands drive i had no trouble keeping up with the manual cars.Get the dealer to give you a back to back test drive and use the DS mode which is easier than paddles.

sparoz · 03-21-2009, 03:48 AM

If you definitely want a manual, then you should wait - why take something you don't want?

In terms of performance, an average person can extract more out of the auto than the manual. It blips and everything, it's anything but short of amazing. You would probably get much more consistent 0-100 times too as I don't think everyone is a racing driver.

I got a manual because I prefer it that way, so that I can play with it. It is a toy car, so I like it to be more engaging. Nothing more satisfying then execute the perfect heel toe. While the auto just does that for you.

What you need to do is to think about what you want, is it play, ultimate performance or consistent performance? The choice is yours.

AussieRacer · 03-21-2009, 07:17 AM

I say go the manual if rev matching your way into the supermarket carpark floats your boat, or you intend for your car to be a track machine. Otherwise as others have said, an auto will be quicker in everyday driving.

Manuals are best on tracks as you can 100% guarantee you're in the right gear when you get on the gas before the corner apex, and you can flat upshift. But on public roads their benefit is purely for the amusement of the driver.

My car is a daily driver, so whilst I endure peak hour traffic, I'll always sit myself in an auto. Play time for me happens out on a track.

bfi2906 · 03-21-2009, 07:57 AM

Thanks people for your input -it really is much appreciated.

Clearly this is a matter of personal preference - and everyone has their own reasons for their preference, and I'm sure we all respect that.

I took an auto for a drive today - about 45 mins. And while i've driven both auto's and manuals in the past, i've always done it with the preconception that I'd always buy a manual. So I never really took any notice of the gearbox in the auto. i simply stuck it in D, and off I went.

After today, I have to say i'm impressed. Particularly with DS mode. in fact, i think I'd have to say it felt quicker than the manual. It's a great piece of technology. It managed everything I tried to do with precision. It entertained me. It was a HUGE surprise....

But I'm buying the manual!

I don't really care if one is .000001 sec's quicker than the other. I'm not that good, and nor is Sydney traffic. There were three issues for me:
1) I kept finding that I was going up, when I wanted to go down - I'm sure i would have become more aware of it, so this woud have gone away after a short time.
2) I didn't feel as conected and in control as i do in a manual - I'm sure that has more to do with me being more comfortable and familiar with a manual than an auto, than it's a reflection on the transmission
3) In the end, when I was heading back to the dealer, I simply thought "bugger it", put it in D, because I was tired of having to give it so much thought

I guess I'm not ready for an auto just yet - but I'm sure it will come, and when it does, It'll be a BMW Step -- no doubt about that at all.

TSiggs · 03-21-2009, 09:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bfi2906

Thanks people for your input -it really is much appreciated.

Clearly this is a matter of personal preference - and everyone has their own reasons for their preference, and I'm sure we all respect that.

I took an auto for a drive today - about 45 mins. And while i've driven both auto's and manuals in the past, i've always done it with the preconception that I'd always buy a manual. So I never really took any notice of the gearbox in the auto. i simply stuck it in D, and off I went.

After today, I have to say i'm impressed. Particularly with DS mode. in fact, i think I'd have to say it felt quicker than the manual. It's a great piece of technology. It managed everything I tried to do with precision. It entertained me. It was a HUGE surprise....

But I'm buying the manual!

I don't really care if one is .000001 sec's quicker than the other. I'm not that good, and nor is Sydney traffic. There were three issues for me:
1) I kept finding that I was going up, when I wanted to go down - I'm sure i would have become more aware of it, so this woud have gone away after a short time.
2) I didn't feel as conected and in control as i do in a manual - I'm sure that has more to do with me being more comfortable and familiar with a manual than an auto, than it's a reflection on the transmission
3) In the end, when I was heading back to the dealer, I simply thought "bugger it", put it in D, because I was tired of having to give it so much thought

I guess I'm not ready for an auto just yet - but I'm sure it will come, and when it does, It'll be a BMW Step -- no doubt about that at all.

That's almost exactly how I felt after my test drive. If I could afford two nice cars, I'd definitely get an auto for the mundane trips to work in traffic and keep the fun manual car for everything else. Since I can only have one or the other, it's a manual for me too!

sparoz · 03-21-2009, 09:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bfi2906

1) I kept finding that I was going up, when I wanted to go down - I'm sure i would have become more aware of it, so this woud have gone away after a short time.
2) I didn't feel as conected and in control as i do in a manual - I'm sure that has more to do with me being more comfortable and familiar with a manual than an auto, than it's a reflection on the transmission
3) In the end, when I was heading back to the dealer, I simply thought "bugger it", put it in D, because I was tired of having to give it so much thought

I guess I'm not ready for an auto just yet - but I'm sure it will come, and when it does, It'll be a BMW Step -- no doubt about that at all.

Good on ya going for the manual

.

1) It won't take much to get used to it - BMW op to shift with momentum, which I much prefer than Audi/VWs. It won't take long for you to get used to.
3) That's the beauty of the Auto.

BTW, the BMW Step's actually the ZF's. Wait till try DCT though - that's an amazing gear box. It is smooth as if you a relaxing drive, and it's so fast when you want to play.

bfi2906 · 04-04-2009, 06:53 AM

Sorry for slow reply - spent the last two weeks in HK & Tokyo working - other than going to the HK 7's - what a hoot!

Thanks to all for your views - It all became academic. The Auto cars were sold by the dealers to whom they were allocated. So in the end, I had to order a car.

It'll be a 135 coupe, Manual, in Lemans Blue, with Black leather and Alu acented trim and sunroof. Still a simple spec. Due late June, unless they can "steal" a production slot, in which case it'll be late may. Not banking on that though.

Cheers again averyone. Appreciate your input.

TimMc · 04-04-2009, 10:52 PM

Manual, Lemans Blue & Black. Classy!

gtaday51 · 04-04-2009, 11:50 PM

I know I love my Step in my 135i. But honestly I wanted a stick. The problem was my dad is part owner of my car and he can drive stick...he just doesnt want to. And to whoever said that which gear am I in again comment...I fully agree. Its really frustrating to need to glance down all the time. The car will fight me. Like if im trying to save some gas I will make the car shift into sixth below 40mph. Its all fine on the car...its chugging along at 1300RPM and im getting great mileage. But the car suddenly decides to downshift and i need to fight it to get it to do what I want it to. Its just frustrating.

So yeah...if you are even considering a manual with a tiny incling in your mind...just wait and have more fun than I am...arbitralily hitting the flappy paddles.

Alext · 04-05-2009, 12:24 AM

As good as the auto is, I felt significantly more in control with the manual too.

takahashi · 04-05-2009, 06:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TP 135i

I have a manual 135i and an automatic Cayman S.........
I prefer to drive the 135i...........
Enough said.

Get the manual.

Your Cayman S has PDK? They are much much better.

135 auto is bloody good. That is after I have driven the automatic of Lexus ISF.

03-20-2009, 01:01 AM	#1
bfi2906 Captain 35 Rep 685 Posts Drives: 135 Coupe Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Sydney iTrader: (0)	Input please My dealer is making noises about the potential non-availability of the car we agreed on, which has the potential to make the wait much longer than expected. For a variety of reasons (not just my impatience) this creates quite an issue. As a back up plan, he's asked me to consider an auto - because there are more available than manuals -- that probably says something. I've never owned an auto - i just like driving a manual - particularly BMW manuals. I've always been of the view that -- If I want something to steer, that's full of wood -- I'll buy a boat. (No offence intended to anyone) That said, i know auto's have improved hugely in recent times, so do't want to completely dismiss the option based on my old-fashioned view. So my question is, what's an auto 135 coupe like to drive and own? Is it fun to drive? Does it "blip" on the down-shift? Is the driver really in control, or only until the car decides to take over? Do you "feel" the car like you do with a manual? Can you "feather" the throttle when you're cornering at speed? Etc, Etc, Etc Thanks for feedback. B.
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03-20-2009, 01:35 AM	#2
BBK Banned 88 Rep 3,070 Posts Drives: A boring one... Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Australia iTrader: (0) Garage List 2009 BMW 135i [5.76]	Have you already put a deposit down on the car? Anyways... I haven't picked my car up yet, but I thought the auto was pretty darn good. I usually drive manuals but I am getting lazy nowadays and the auto in the 135i was very good. Yes, it does blip on downshift, it's very addictive! Frankly, I feel the car more sometimes in an auto because all my concentration and senses (hands) are on the steering wheel. It changes reasonably quick too. I won't say it's better than a manual, but it's definately a great option. Wish I could give you more of an idea but it's been a while since I test drove it... And I had driven the manual before the auto to compare. Hope this helps! ps - But if you are wanting a manual, then I would not settle because your dealer stuffed up. Can you search other dealers for a similar spec'd car and buy from them?
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03-20-2009, 04:03 AM	#3
Breville Scum in the sun 30 Rep 938 Posts Drives: 135i Coupe TiAg Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Syndey iTrader: (0) Garage List 2008 135i Coupe [0.00]	I test drove the auto and thought it was OK, but bought the manual because it was the only real option for me. I never actually tested the manual and am thoroughly pleased with it. It's even easier now they have the hill hold feature when in gear. __________________ One should love animals. They are so tasty.
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03-20-2009, 08:05 AM	#4
bfi2906 Captain 35 Rep 685 Posts Drives: 135 Coupe Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Sydney iTrader: (0)	Thanks for the feedback guys. BBK -- yes I have given them a deposit, but the contract states that it's contingent on them being able to get the car - so I was aware of it at the time. I'm not concerned about the deposit -- if they can't secure the car, then the contract is void, and I get my $ back. It's more the inconvenience than anything, which involves the rego and finance on my trade -- trust me, it's a little involved. You're right about other dealers - and that's tomorrows job. I'm still of two minds about the auto - any other views would be appreciated. B.
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03-20-2009, 08:28 AM	#5
ZedClever Private First Class 4 Rep 109 Posts Drives: 09 135i space grey/black Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Charlotte, NC iTrader: (0)	Ive always had manuals. My last car was the vw gli, with tiptronic dsg. I test drove both the auto and manual 135. The auto was very similar to the dsg, shifts in .04, super smooth, less engaging to drive in D. The manual was the choice for me. I just feel more connected to the driving that way, which for me is why I bought the car in the first place. The clutch and shift distance are great as well.
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03-20-2009, 08:41 AM	#6
TP 135i Major 29 Rep 1,340 Posts Drives: 2008 135i SGM MT Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Finksburg, Maryland iTrader: (0) Garage List 1995 Acura Integra SE [0.00] 2008 BMW 135i [0.00] 2006 Porsche Cayman S [0.00] 1999 Toyota 4-Runner [0.00]	I have a manual 135i and an automatic Cayman S......... I prefer to drive the 135i........... Enough said. Get the manual. __________________ 2008 135i SGM
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03-20-2009, 03:36 PM	#7
Zuzu Major General 2816 Rep 7,637 Posts Drives: M2C HS 6MT Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Sydney Australia iTrader: (0)	The 135 would have to be the easiest manual you will ever drive.. Great gear box, light clutch and smooth shifting.. Even in traffic its still a pleasure. And the hill start is a bonus I didnt know about until delivery as I purchased back in March 08 with no test drive.
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03-20-2009, 07:41 PM	#8
Alpine* Brigadier General 1282 Rep 4,093 Posts Drives: M2 G87 Join Date: May 2008 Location: Australia iTrader: (0)	Manual definitely IMO, then if the auto was a DCT then maybe not. oh yeh it is cheaper too
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03-20-2009, 10:56 PM	#9
bobbynoway Private First Class 5 Rep 186 Posts Drives: 135i Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Sydney iTrader: (0)	When you are paying big bucks for this car do not compromise on your preferences. Get the car that you want. Trust me you will be better off in the long run.
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03-20-2009, 11:35 PM	#10
TSiggs Second Lieutenant 18 Rep 247 Posts Drives: Space Grey 135i Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Denver iTrader: (0)	I was in the same wood boat as you. Dealer had the exact car I wanted but with auto. I will tell you as far as autos go, it is very good. DS mode was pretty fun. What made me change my mind is I felt like I wasn't in control, almost at a loss when selecting gears...what gear am I in again? Let me glance at the indicator...yah, not a pleasant feeling. While I'm sure it would have been fine after I acclimated, I was worried it would get boring after the novelty wore off. I'm now halfway through my wait on my 6mt. I'm not going to lie, it's been very painful. Good luck, and I hope you make the right decision.
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03-21-2009, 12:47 AM	#11
WOPALX Lieutenant Colonel 86 Rep 1,993 Posts Drives: 335i Sedan Join Date: May 2007 Location: Sydney, Australia iTrader: (2)	AT's will hold boost between gear changes resulting in faster QT mile times generally if that's your poison. But MT would be a more engaging drive. Shame the e90 did not come in an MT, as i would have chosen the MT. That said the sport mode is lots of fun & I don't think i'm missing out on that much. End of the day get what you really want, even if the wait is longer.
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03-21-2009, 03:22 AM	#12
2bob Second Lieutenant 6 Rep 264 Posts Drives: AW white135 Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: bilgola plateau NSW australia iTrader: (0)	I bought an auto because my wife sometimes drives the 135.I find once you get used to the paddles its great to drive and on the recent Southern Highlands drive i had no trouble keeping up with the manual cars.Get the dealer to give you a back to back test drive and use the DS mode which is easier than paddles.
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03-21-2009, 03:48 AM	#13
sparoz Brigadier General 191 Rep 4,848 Posts Drives: VO 1///M; Macan Turbo Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Sunshine Coast iTrader: (0)	If you definitely want a manual, then you should wait - why take something you don't want? In terms of performance, an average person can extract more out of the auto than the manual. It blips and everything, it's anything but short of amazing. You would probably get much more consistent 0-100 times too as I don't think everyone is a racing driver. I got a manual because I prefer it that way, so that I can play with it. It is a toy car, so I like it to be more engaging. Nothing more satisfying then execute the perfect heel toe. While the auto just does that for you. What you need to do is to think about what you want, is it play, ultimate performance or consistent performance? The choice is yours. __________________ Macan S Diesel - Carrera White Macan Turbo - White 1///M - Valencia Orange
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03-21-2009, 07:17 AM	#14
AussieRacer Major 24 Rep 1,058 Posts Drives: 2008 135i Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Aust iTrader: (0)	I say go the manual if rev matching your way into the supermarket carpark floats your boat, or you intend for your car to be a track machine. Otherwise as others have said, an auto will be quicker in everyday driving. Manuals are best on tracks as you can 100% guarantee you're in the right gear when you get on the gas before the corner apex, and you can flat upshift. But on public roads their benefit is purely for the amusement of the driver. My car is a daily driver, so whilst I endure peak hour traffic, I'll always sit myself in an auto. Play time for me happens out on a track. __________________ Current: 135i Auto, Le Mans Blue - w/ Bridgestone RE-11 rears, GP Thunder 7500k angels, & "golf tee" mod plus a few M3 suspension bits and pieces...
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03-21-2009, 07:57 AM	#15
bfi2906 Captain 35 Rep 685 Posts Drives: 135 Coupe Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Sydney iTrader: (0)	Thanks people for your input -it really is much appreciated. Clearly this is a matter of personal preference - and everyone has their own reasons for their preference, and I'm sure we all respect that. I took an auto for a drive today - about 45 mins. And while i've driven both auto's and manuals in the past, i've always done it with the preconception that I'd always buy a manual. So I never really took any notice of the gearbox in the auto. i simply stuck it in D, and off I went. After today, I have to say i'm impressed. Particularly with DS mode. in fact, i think I'd have to say it felt quicker than the manual. It's a great piece of technology. It managed everything I tried to do with precision. It entertained me. It was a HUGE surprise.... But I'm buying the manual! I don't really care if one is .000001 sec's quicker than the other. I'm not that good, and nor is Sydney traffic. There were three issues for me: 1) I kept finding that I was going up, when I wanted to go down - I'm sure i would have become more aware of it, so this woud have gone away after a short time. 2) I didn't feel as conected and in control as i do in a manual - I'm sure that has more to do with me being more comfortable and familiar with a manual than an auto, than it's a reflection on the transmission 3) In the end, when I was heading back to the dealer, I simply thought "bugger it", put it in D, because I was tired of having to give it so much thought I guess I'm not ready for an auto just yet - but I'm sure it will come, and when it does, It'll be a BMW Step -- no doubt about that at all.
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04-04-2009, 06:53 AM	#18
bfi2906 Captain 35 Rep 685 Posts Drives: 135 Coupe Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Sydney iTrader: (0)	Sorry for slow reply - spent the last two weeks in HK & Tokyo working - other than going to the HK 7's - what a hoot! Thanks to all for your views - It all became academic. The Auto cars were sold by the dealers to whom they were allocated. So in the end, I had to order a car. It'll be a 135 coupe, Manual, in Lemans Blue, with Black leather and Alu acented trim and sunroof. Still a simple spec. Due late June, unless they can "steal" a production slot, in which case it'll be late may. Not banking on that though. Cheers again averyone. Appreciate your input.
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04-04-2009, 10:52 PM	#19
TimMc Lieutenant Colonel 44 Rep 1,883 Posts Drives: E90 M3 Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Brisbane, Australia iTrader: (0)	Manual, Lemans Blue & Black. Classy! __________________ Driving - Manual E90 M3 (Melbourne Red/Black). Riding - BMW R1200RS Sport.
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04-04-2009, 11:50 PM	#20
gtaday51 gone but not forgotten 35 Rep 985 Posts Drives: gone 135 - Hello 1M! Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: The Big Apple iTrader: (0)	I know I love my Step in my 135i. But honestly I wanted a stick. The problem was my dad is part owner of my car and he can drive stick...he just doesnt want to. And to whoever said that which gear am I in again comment...I fully agree. Its really frustrating to need to glance down all the time. The car will fight me. Like if im trying to save some gas I will make the car shift into sixth below 40mph. Its all fine on the car...its chugging along at 1300RPM and im getting great mileage. But the car suddenly decides to downshift and i need to fight it to get it to do what I want it to. Its just frustrating. So yeah...if you are even considering a manual with a tiny incling in your mind...just wait and have more fun than I am...arbitralily hitting the flappy paddles. __________________ Our Lady of Blessed Acceleration don't fail me now.
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04-05-2009, 12:24 AM	#21
Alext Banned 138 Rep 2,042 Posts Drives: B M W Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Everest iTrader: (2)	As good as the auto is, I felt significantly more in control with the manual too.
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