Which is Better?

[davem]

I bought my car with an auto tranny because it was in good shape with all the desirable options. I'd rather have a 5spd due to the already stated reasons: it's more rugged, more fun, more fuel efficient. Also, the car I drove prior for seven years was a 5 speed so there wasn't a learning curve to deal with. That being said, the 325i w/ an auto is still fun (lots of torque).

One thing to keep in mind is that most E30s with five speeds need the shifting assembly to be rebuilt with new bushing, it's dangerous to drive with a vague shifter. So regardless of whether you get an auto or manual, in my opinion, you'll have to drop some dough to either swapping the auto, or do some transmission work (will probably need mounts, seals, clutch, shifter bushings etc.).

[BrooklynMW]

I have an auto. Bought it 4 months ago, and plan on swapping it out for a 5speed within the next few months.

In the meantime, I'm not displeased with the automatic transmission. My e30 is my daily driver, is very reliable, and I get great gas mileage.

No, it's not as fun, and yes, you feel like only half a man. But it's a lot nicer if you do a lot of city driving, or traffic sitting, which I do. And I must say, compared to any other automatic car, it's the best. You still feel a connection to the car and to the transmission. And if you drive it right, you can manage a certain level of control over your gears. Just gotta know how to handle your throttle properly to get the gear you like.

Plus, the kickdown switch is WEEEEE!!! pretty fun.

All that said, I still can't wait to swap mine out.

So if you prefer an automatic car, an e30 is a superior choice to any other car. But if you want the real e30 experience, gotta go manual.

[325ix]

The only reason to get an auto is if you drive a short distance in terrible traffic or, you physically can't drive a manual. The manual is far superior in the fun category. And if you do find a good conditon auto, just do a swap to a manual.

[faststatus]

or if you find a super cheap beater that runs, then auto is ok... for a while.

That's the boat im in right now..

[bimmer206]

I regret buying a auto, every time I drive it.

That's why I'm about 95% done collecting parts to swap in my 5speed. :p

[BrooklynMW]

You know, another thing to think about is an auto might be better in a vert. Verts are meant for cruising down some Boulevard. If I had a vert, I might prefer auto.