We drove a 325i w/ 5 spd and a 330i w/ step. befor buying. The 325 was fun...and had good power...the 330 was faster....but the step felt slow...we like 5 spds..... bought a 330i w/ 5spd...a rocket!!! (well compaired to our 240 Volvo wagon!!) For us it was worth it. We have ~650 miles on it and can't wait to reach 1200 so we can see what rpms over 4500 are like! GET THE SP TOO!!! Oh the break dust but what handeling...