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In Reply to: 6 Speed vs. Automatic posted by Stan on February 03, 2000 at 13:08:00:
I have a black '91 6 speed in SF Bay area. As a matter of fact, saw a blue 850 w/ Alpina wheels about a month ago driving along S. Van Ness. You?
I drove both before buying. I think the six speed option is wasted without modifications to suspension, engine and driveline. Its like puting a 6 speed manual in a big 750 cruiser. The v12 doesn't like to rev much above 4500 rpm unless you add a free flow exhaust and chip it. The engine doesn't breath very well, making it torque-intensive. Probably why they put such tall gearing in it (2.65 rear). If buying the car for its intended purpose: Cruising, I'd buy the automatic and call it a day, no modifications. If buying to drive in a spirited manner I'd get the six speed, but chip it, add a cat back exhaust and even change the rear ratio to the CSi's 2.93LS or even a 3.15LS ratio. Yes, sacralege to some, but much, much more fun to drive.
: I hope I don't ignite a controversy here, but I'd like to hear some opinions from the group. When I was looking for an 850, I heard various opinions but most favored going with the automatic (for various reasons). Anyway, I was convinced at that time and purchased a '92 automatic. Now, I do like this car very much, but after reading of the different models the group has, I have begun to wonder about this choice. So: please feel free to pontificate over the relative merits of 6 speed vs. auto.
: For myself, living in a high traffic area (SF Bay area), having the auto seems ideal (although my "commute" is from my bedroom to my downstairs office). When I get the urge for some manual action I take out my wife's '94 Supra (which also happens to be a very fun car). However, it seems that a lot of the modified 8's posted about here are sticks, and as I contemplate mod's to mine, I may think about just purchasing a nicely done 6 speed. So…..pour it on!
: P.S. Now that both cam shaft position sensors have been replaced, the car is running great again. I can't wait for my DK's to go south (next year please, if the great car gods are listening).
: Stan C.
: '92 BMW 850I, Maur. Blue, 76K miles, auto
: '94 Toyota Supra (non-turbo)
: '85 Honda CRX-SiR, SCCA CSP autocrosser
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