Another review. Compares DCT to 6MT as well

[s4awd]

http://www.leftlanenews.com/bmw-m5-f...ve-review.html


"Will that be two or three pedals?

Although global versions of the M5 come fitted exclusively with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, U.S. Buyers have the option of a six-speed manual. We tested the row-it-yourself version of the M5 on the winding roads of central California and came away quite impressed. The M5's manual gearbox delivers short and precise shifts and we found the clutch pedal to be the perfect balance between light and predictable. The six-speed also features a rev-matching system similar to the one Nissan uses in the 370Z.

Purists might scoff at the idea of an M5 with just two pedals, but BMW's optional seven-speed dual-clutch transmission is nearly flawless. Like all dual-clutch units, the gearbox can be a bit clumsy in stop-and-go traffic, but its lightning-fast gear changes and wider ratio are perfectly suited for the M5's nuke of an engine.

BMW says the semi-automatic is 0.1 seconds quicker to 60 and we imagine the disparity only grows from there. We were able to sample both transmissions on Laguna Seca raceway and the seven-speed felt noticeable faster around the 2.2 mile track. However, the six-speed is much more engaging during routine driving and as this will likely be the last M5 ever to offer a manual option, there is an argument to be made for both...."

Personally I'm still amazed that we've been given a choice

[BMWBuddha]

Excellent point...I am struggling with that choice. Could one make the argument that a manual transmission encourages better driving technique...?

[///M1]

Maybe the F10 M5 in a manual will be looked at one day as the 993T - last of the air-cooled So last of a dying breed.