Dual Clutch (DCT) or Manual: which BMW M transmission is best? (F80 F82 F83 M3 M4)

[@jameswillard1]

As the new owner of a 2020 M2 Competition with DCT I can safely say with confidence to BUY THE MANUAL! I wish I would have

[@TommyLGarage]

Ouch. Sorry to hear that

[@Schwabz33]

Why??

[@Yeer718]

Thank god there are some true enthusiasts left

[@karlxu782]

If you got the DCT version, you have to get that LED M performance steering wheel. Drive in manual mode, and that light shift adds another layer of feedback. at least for me, that was one of few reason I would choose a DCT. I got the manual one in the end, because of the CAE shifter, and I image the manual version is more mechanical so it is more friendly for DIY repair in the future.

[@oihdnuoc679]

Brian Schwab Manual driving makes more fun

[@larrycampbell2500]

I'll take the 6 speed transmission, manual - thank you

[@TommyLGarage]

Larry Campbell done!

[@pmp2559]

It is way more fun

[@john3yoo]

@@pmp2559 no bbbjbob b b b bbbjbo jbbbjbjb joibbib

[@jediahgaming]

Now you and manual transmission lovers will be such good driveers

[@ardaturk8397]

Manual cars are fun in american muscle and JDMs. German manuals are not really fun lol

[@alfonsealbanese1785]

I totally agree. It makes doing back roads much more fun. On the highway it's mostly irrelevant. Sadly finding cars in the same league(power AND handling) as an M3/4 with a manual is becoming more difficult. Unless my wife is in the car, I never use the cars stereo either. I love hearing the sound of the engine as I shift and drive.

[@TommyLGarage]

GT3 is the answer :)

[@chrischow7398]

MT :) Thank you very much sir. Driver engagement, 100% agree with being rewarded with smooth upshifts/downshifts when it happens. I love my car and brings smiles :)

[@TommyLGarage]

How’s your car treating you ?

[@chrischow7398]

@@TommyLGarage Absolutely loving it, thank you for your awesome suggestions going to the MT. Approaching 3k miles after 4 months of ownership. I love the peppy 1.5T motor and the awesome handling. :)

[@milou-psychicmedium]

I have owned many BMWs with manual transmissions over the past twenty years, about four years ago I purchased my first with DCT, I am not going back to manual. Now I own a 2016 M4 with DCT transmission, it's the most fun car I have ever owned. I always drive it on manual mode.

[@TommyLGarage]

I am not surprised. DCT is amazing

[@markokena]

JUST 6 SPEED MANUAL FOREVER !!!

[@TommyLGarage]

True answer

[@MrSWW]

6 Speed manual is the best gear box for sport / performance vehicles period.

[@4131mpierce]

As an older man in my 60's who raced a lot of cars in the 70's and 80's, I loved your review. But having a car with the DCT, I'd never go back. Who wants to scape their knuckles in a single seater and be slow again! Tech has evolved. Everything must change...

[@TommyLGarage]

I agree that dual clutch is true progression but I love the old-school feel

[@romarioviegas5040]

Slow ?? You’re telling me a M4 manual is slow ?

[@Billybobthor]

I daily my M3 CP 6 speed manual. It’s not as fast as the DCT, but I wanted to have one last manual “visceral” experience before going to an automatic. People definitely give you more respect when they see it’s a manual too.

[@TommyLGarage]

Very true !

[@Billybobthor]

Tommy L Garage really nice job with this video too. I enjoyed it a lot.

[@TommyLGarage]

Jonah Leon thank you! It means a lot

[@JacesOwnWorld]

Jonah Leon manual ftw.

[@PeRRXX]

Why do you care about people’s respect?

[@ItsumiSensei]

Who cares about lap times? Just have fun.

[@TommyLGarage]

Agreed !

[@NANGSGARAGE]

Yes!

[@AIDAHAR210]

True

[@bukdavid509]

I've been looking into getting one of these and I'm torn between the 2 choices.. my gut tells me 6 speed though! Thanks for the review, very helpful.

[@TommyLGarage]

Manual!!!

[@JacesOwnWorld]

Both a great transmissions. My money would include two cars. One manual, one DCT. C8 Vette and manual supercharged E46 M3 🙂

[@TommyLGarage]

Now that’s a good solution!

[@dougcampos5518]

Not a bad combo either

[@tommeiner9983]

Why would you supercharge an E46 M3? It's already got more than enough power.

[@Ducabjorn]

Hi Tommy, as a owner of a M2 with DCT, you missed out, not going for a spirited drive with DCT, in the twisties! Always on the boil, always in the the gear. Bought DCT because of dayli driving in traffic, what a bonus it was, first time out having fun. Like a racecar. Keep up the good work. BR: Bjørnar

[@TommyLGarage]

Oh no doubt about it. I’ve also Seen what DCt can do at the track - it’s an amazing transmission.

[@bedrick1982]

@@TommyLGarage And worth noting on the highway, you can drop to optimal gear in manual mode by pegging the throttle (and depressing the kickdown) and tapping the downshift paddle ... 7th to 3rd at 50mph be ready to hang on tight!

[@TommyLGarage]

rudeboys28712 why? Because the owners used them as intended ?

[@JB-wz7ke]

6MT all the way. I also have a F80 which I had to order through the dealer as none had a manual. Waited 8 weeks for it from Germany and worth the wait. Great review!

[@TommyLGarage]

We are a vast minority of 6MT owners

[@jaretclifton]

@@TommyLGarage Loving my 6MT F83 more and more every day!

[@TommyLGarage]

Jaret Clifton same here

[@Yeer718]

6mt 535 checking in

[@PeRRXX]

I personally prefer a good DCT/Auto to a manual. Feels more like a race car to me. And on a backroad and track, I feel way more comfortable using paddles to shift, rather then taking my hands off the wheel to shift with a manual.

[@yeahbell1998]

I can agree on the track, bc if ur racing and turning it’s hard to downshift while ur turning or if you playing defense on somebody

[@Sunofgod888]

You don’t know how to drive

[@AarmOZ84]

Sounds like a priority and personality thing as to which transmission is right. I want to get a M2 Competition and I definitely want the DCT. DCT is for those who want to go ridiculously fast. Not just fast, but ridiculously fast. Manual is for people who want a driver's car. I think the hardcore car enthusiast will always opt for more mechanical options than the latest tech. I love driving manual in my 20s, but I am ready to upgrade to DCT.

[@TommyLGarage]

Well said!!!

[@Kid_Ellipsis]

They’re both great. I drove them back to back intending to get the 6spd but the DCT just clicked for me with the motor. I find that the automatic shifting is only useful when you need another hand - even in traffic the paddles make it less jerky esp from 3-2. Some days I miss a 3rd pedal and wish I could have both!

[@TommyLGarage]

I hear you loud and clear and dont disagree.

[@alexthurgood92]

Got the DCT, hands down every day. Over here in Europe, most cars are manual so not really as exciting shifting for us I think. So much nicer having an automatic for daily driving and find it so much fun slamming my foot down puts a smile on my face every time. But each to their own, get what you will enjoy!

[@TommyLGarage]

Here it’s the other way around hehe

[@ThePegasusAirforce]

I've always heard in europe manual transmissions are more so considered qualities of cheap / budget cars rather than of performance cars. Here in NA though manuals are pretty rare so it feels a little more special and cool to own one here, even if it is technically slower than the modern autos.

[@BlakesGarage]

So.... having a DCT M4 first thing I do is double tap the M2 button.... Sport + Throttle /Sport Plus Damper /Comfort Steering Manual DCT Level 3 Shift Intensity Traction full off. Cars a beast and I definitely wouldn't get a Manual because it would feel much slower. Also DCT will get you into trouble much quicker than the Manual in my opinion. I pretty much do about 5 nice drifts to 1-2 nice burnouts everyday on the way home. I have actually never driven it in Eco or full Auto mode. I hate any other throttle map but Sport + all the torque all the time. Wish you would have matted the throttle with traction full off in the DCT and you could see how the car revs up and dumps the clutch very aggressively. DCT in Manual mode keeps you fully engaged in the car.

[@TommyLGarage]

I mean i agree that the dct is a lot faster and plenty fun. It’s also the better Tranny for the f80 for sure. But I’m still not wishing I bought one. Matter of preference. Both are superb

[@aerok89]

Manual always! I don't pretend to break any lap time, I just love having fun while I go to the track and as a daily you can get use to it very quickly you don't even care that much about traffic (for me at least)

[@TommyLGarage]

Yes!!!

[@rochleeg22]

I have a e93 M3 with the DCT and I love it with that V8. I would say for my generation BMW it was the right choice because of the low torque.

[@TommyLGarage]

To this date it is still the best sounding M3

[@algernonwolfwhistle6351]

Definitely a manual gearbox for me. Driver engagement is heightened and far more pleasurable experience.

[@TommyLGarage]

I think manual seems fun on any car

[@cccc9911]

Love your vids. Its sooooo simple. If you are a driving enthusiast, the manual is the way to go if your car is mainly street driven. However, if racing and lap times are most important, than I think a DCT is sensible choice. Automatics are boring unless they are driven at 110%.

[@TommyLGarage]

Very well said!

[@dougcampos5518]

100% agree. I’ve got 6speed manual in my m4 and Zl1. I tested the 7speed auto and the 10 speed auto in the zl1 (which has issues) and I’m w/u Tommy old school is the way to go you feel “one with the car” and those auto rev downshifts into corners are what we wake up for:). Cheers my friend another great video!

[@TommyLGarage]

Glad we agree and thanks for the love !

[@MrSWW]

Only advantage of the 7 speed DCT is it has an extra gear and change gear faster than the 6 speed manual, if you want to go fast on the race track.

[@TommyLGarage]

Very true

[@daniellewis9731]

Thanks for the info , just picked up my 6 speed MT and planning a crazy build on it , a fan from Los Angeles, California !!!

[@TommyLGarage]

Congrats and welcome to the club !

[@sveeny]

I have a manual M2 and it‘s the reason why I‘ll probably keep it forever. It‘s what makes the car special!

[@TommyLGarage]

Agreed !

[@VonB3]

Every time I get in an auto I’m always looking for the third pedal, Manual trans forever!

[@TommyLGarage]

Yes !!

[@F80Amar]

Went from a manual STI to a 2018 DCT M3 competition and I absolutely love it! Both are very fun in their own ways but day to day life it’s nice to be more relaxed and I find myself less anxious also in a DCT not that I’m bad at manual driving or anything it’s just that I don’t really need to think as much and Im in a much better seating position overall. Younger me would disagree, but this thing is very fast and you won’t regret making the switch if you do happen to be in a similar situation as me. Insane would be an understatement on how fast this Dual clutch transmission shifts and it just continues flying from there on. Car feels like it’s driving on a cloud beyond 90+ compared to hitting 80 in my STI with everything feeling like it’s about to fall apart.

[@Tangent360]

One thing you missed about the DCT (maybe I just missed when you mentioned it) is a downshifting feature: When you floor the gas pedal into the kickdown switch and then hit the downshift paddle it'll immediately jump down to the lowest possible gear instead of going one gear at a time. Great review of the differences though! I have a 2016 M4 that I got with the DCT. I also have a 2011 Z4 35i with a 6 speed manual; if I didn't have that to enjoy shifting I'd have gotten the M4 with a manual. The DCT really is great for autocross and track days though. Personally I only drive mine in automatic mode if I happen to get stuck in that really irritating slow-and-go traffic for more than a few minutes. I totally agree the DCT can be a bit clunky around town but you can flash the GTS programming for it which makes a huge difference for both around town and hard driving.

[@TommyLGarage]

I wanted to do it but the car had bigger turbos and no crank hub fix. I didn’t want to blow up the engine hehe

[@harrisonpotter1792]

The step down feature in the dct helps cause crank hub spring, wouldn’t do that if I were you

[@TheKos2Kos]

This may be the slowest talking youtuber. Which is great because I can hear him clearly at 2x speed. First time on this channel. Just subscribed. Lots of 2x speed catching up to do. Great video. I've driven both dct and manual 3 series...never an M though. I prefer daily manual driving. And I grew up on Miami fl and dont mind shifting in traffic at all. DCT is brilliant. Drive what you want

[@TommyLGarage]

haha great feedback :)

[@Tracertme]

A nice unbiased view towards both transmissions, very rare and much appreciated... for track or timings DCT... for road driving manual... unless you live a really built up congested central district and that comes down to the definition of the owner.

[@TommyLGarage]

Thanks. Glad you enjoyed it

[@shortround9134]

I used to drive manual for a long time and now I prefer DCT, I own e93 M3 V8 Cabrio DCT... With DCT you can either from any gear press the pedal down hard and the computer will select lowest possible gear at the speed your doing for great acceleration.... or what i do is press M button, from 0 - about 80 select 3rd gear if your in higher gear with paddles, then i shoot off like a rocket ship in manual mode with the paddles... now thats just awesome.... and as its a V8 i can drag out the acceleration and gears since redline is 9k.... I also know how to with M mode and Manual shifting with paddles to get a kick from 1 -3 or to 4 gear when shifting to get the best possible hookup on acceleration.... all this with traction control on....... the trick is when accelerating from 0 - 80 mph when to shift the gears....gears must be in the fastest shift setting.

[@TommyLGarage]

I mean no denying that DCt is better. I just find manual more fun

[@halshoahmed7471]

6 speed manual transmission all day bby 👌 I hate automatic.

[@TommyLGarage]

DCT is good too in this car I have to say

[@russsle]

Could not find a manual in the spec I wanted for months, so just went with the DCT and still find myself hunting for a manual, both look like great fun the dct is definitely a monster though, puts the power down with so much speed and precision!

[@TommyLGarage]

Manual is definitely more engaging

[@Shadowmanners]

Hey Tommy, After having my DCT M4 Convertible as my daily for a year, I can say that I used the manual shifting 95% of the time, only time I'd use the auto was getting out of a Startbucks or something if I'm busy setting down the coffee or trying to drink my coffee while driving. It's true about the supercar feel, mine was tuned but truly felt like a supercar especially on the highway where it gets to 200kmh in a blink of an eye, always happy to race anything on the road unless it cost 6x as much or more lol. Manual looks fun, but losing that supercar feel, might be a bit of a dropoff, I guess I must try one after another before choosing too, as it's so hard to decide without actually trying both!

[@TommyLGarage]

I guess my R8 will have to be the only supercar feeling vehicle :)

[@Shadowmanners]

@@TommyLGarage you have an R8??

[@Chewman30]

Coming from the Uk and having always used a manual gearbox it was a pleasure using the DCT.

[@TommyLGarage]

DCT is amazing I agree

[@jeffd.3151]

Great Review! I never owned anything but a manual and I am going to keep it that. DCT is a great automatic but it’s still an automatic. DCT is a no brainer for racing/tracking but for every day street driving a manual is the way to go.

[@TommyLGarage]

Thank you. DCT indeed is amazing for the track

[@0858Pinoy]

I’ve watched this like 10 ten times and I still can’t decide

[@TommyLGarage]

Manual!

[@Jtgget]

Ok guy listen any manual car if you just work the clutch pedal with out giving it gas, it’s gunna take you up to speed enough to shift to the next gear with no gas until you reach higher gears. It’s all about identifying your clutch catch point.

[@TommyLGarage]

Great point!

[@RCFunTime]

The gearbox choice is only as good as you want them to be. For me, I daily mine in a lot of traffic and dct is a must.

[@TommyLGarage]

Nothing wrong with a DCT :)

[@RCFunTime]

@@TommyLGarage nothing wrong with manual too hehe

[@kenrossaukrsa]

You must be a sucker for punishment if you want to clutch all day long in heavy traffic plus yes manuals eats the prop shaft rubbers and bearings much quicker

[@StreetDrivenDaily]

Manual for me. I don't care how fast the auto car shift. Always owned manual cars. And love it. F8x manual is so easy to drive. Pozdrawiam

[@TommyLGarage]

Ja tak samo!!

[@StreetDrivenDaily]

@@TommyLGarage i crossed few cars out when I was looking for the next car. Including gtr.

[@masonicmachine]

For me I agree but it sucks the manual can't take as much power

[@toondelau9909]

AMAZING and informative video about the clutches. thank you Tom

[@TommyLGarage]

Thanks for watching !

[@edi2083]

Tom I’m a big fan of BMW but when you set I’m going to buy a gt3 after the m3 I set oh no why that.But now i realized that the gt3 is like a race car,and now is one of my favorite cars. If you get a gt3 get it in manual,9000 RPM.I hope your channel will grow up😁💯

[@TommyLGarage]

Thanks! That’s why I love that car. By the looks of it I will need to wait another 4 years - 40th birthday :)

[@edi2083]

Tommy L Garage hope you’ll get a porsche also other exotic cars,I always will support you 😁💪🤘

[@nabeelmustafa8651]

Tommy L Garage it seems litteraly every f80 owner goes from an f80 to a 911 and i dont blame them. I want both!

[@jameswheeler9752]

I live on a little island in the UK and an auto is easier than a manual as you're constantly up and down shifting for corners and traffic conditions. If i was in the US I'd definitely go for the manual.

[@TommyLGarage]

Can’t go wrong with either one I guess

[@jimallison6286]

I have the DCT M3 in YM Blue. I do like the engagement of the manual, but the DCT on track is super. I got the wife a little E85 Z4 manual, and I love driving that with the top down and rowing the gears.

[@TommyLGarage]

Jim Allison seems like a great compromise

[@chitterlingsrtasty]

You convinced me to stay the course. Manual F80 search continues.

[@TommyLGarage]

Great choice !!

[@MarkGelderland]

I drive my F83 comp on the autobahn regularly, DCT is ideal, especially accelerating and shifting using the paddles 150-250km/u all the time.

[@kuabarra]

I recently purchased an Elantra N DCT and agree with you. It is fast, feels like a video game, BUT is just boring for day to day driving. Also at least with the Elantra N, if I leave it in auto and need to accelerate quickly, there's like a 50% chance the transmission will sit there hunting for the correct gear for a good second or two before going. This leads me to driving in in manual mode most of the time, but with 8 gears that gets tedious. Would go manual if I were to buy again.

[@TommyLGarage]

Manual Elantra N would be amazing

[@HoMiE327]

This video helped make up my mind about manual m4... I definitely prefer the analogy feel behind the steering wheel.

[@TommyLGarage]

You won’t regret it

[@joaoreis1079]

In Portugal we always had manual transmissions and after more than 20 years using them I’m soooo happy to have a 4 series automatic !! Why? Faster gear shifting , way more relaxed when driving in traffic and slow local roads with lots of cars , way more relaxed when driving with family on holidays and a very good fun when using manual mode with automatic gearbox ... emotions are what you make of them , but driving on traffic for most of the year, having to drive at 25 / 30 mph on many many occasions it’s way much more important for me than having a “more engaging “ manual transmission .... so automatic is my choice for road cars. I mean , all road cars

[@TommyLGarage]

I love manuals. More engaging

[@KilaByte33]

Brother from another mother, I literally only listen to the radio on long drives, in the city I just listen to the sounds the beast makes. 3 pedals here as well. Sometimes I feel like 5th shouldn't be there (my least used gear, go 4th to 6th) and a very tall 7th would be nice on the highway, just like Vettes do

[@TommyLGarage]

Haha then I’m not the only one! My wife thinks I’m too crazy hehe

[@jeeplifestyle2332]

thank you for your video , I like it very well and I like also the manual !! it s more connected to the car and make feel the motor , thank you !

[@EE-uy3wz]

I have 3 m3s with 6 speed manual....my next will be DCT! Especially Since ill be driving my clients around 💯

[@TommyLGarage]

I can’t give up manual just yet

[@pcarobsessed9778]

I drive daily my M4. So went for DCT. Still fun!

[@TommyLGarage]

Jun Mfour4 no doubt about it. It’s very much fun. But I also daily my car :)

[@xFlared]

99.9% of enthusiasts in NYC would still choose the DCT. Inhaling clutch dust and limping after crawling stop and go isn't a popular style of life here.

[@TommyLGarage]

Agreed but it’s still more fun

[@doomkid1331]

I’m looking forward to my first m3 or m4 your videos are superrrrr helpful

[@TommyLGarage]

Thanks!!

[@runna-ow7ql]

helpful video for me. im coming from an e46 m3 6 speed LSB, to a San Marino Blue comp DCT..i have driven manual cars all my driving career, im ready for a sporty change that makes sense. i don't think i'll miss manual too much since i've done it for so long.

[@TommyLGarage]

You won’t miss it at all

[@dwhfatih]

I have 92 model lada samara and my girlfriend has 2018 hyundai i20 automatic. And i can say that samara is more enjoyable just because it's manual. Not exaggerating. With f80 i cant even imagine how joyfull it would be to drive.

[@TommyLGarage]

I used to drive my uncle’s Samara. Loved it!

[@jasonahbh4880]

AUTOMATIC = MANUAL THEY ALL, same. It's the way you drive them that add touch.

[@TommyLGarage]

Yup !

[@AntwonDaBusiness]

I have a DCT M4 and love it. It’s the best of both worlds man

[@TommyLGarage]

No doubt. It’s a great gearbox

[@cold2036]

I have DCT and I never drive in auto lol...I’ve driven manuals my entire life and I must say I don’t miss it

[@TommyLGarage]

DCT is indeed very nice

[@masonicmachine]

@@TommyLGarage I love manual and I love my manual m4 but if I bought another one it would probably be the dct just so I could push more power

[@BlakesGarage]

Exactly my Dude, Everyone that says manual, most likely has never driven a DCT not Auto. If you actually like to go full kill mode DCT is the way to go.

[@TommyLGarage]

Blake's Garage full kill mode - nothing comes close to DCt. That’s why I said it feels like driving a supercar. It really is an amazing transmission

[@ritzzzzzwik]

Loved it! There's simply nothing more satisfying that a perfect up/down shift. A perfect rev match a day keeps the doctor away :D and you dont really have to go superfast to enjoy they car. Gives me the false sense of feeling I have more skill lol. Been dailying (plus track) my f82 for a year and absolutely love it.

[@TommyLGarage]

ritzzzzzwik agreed!

[@robertbroadbent2522]

Great video... half way through I realize this mans just took exit 135 🙌 I always used to accelerate through that same tiny tunnel haha, cant wait to get myself into a fun daily driver again (Just moved back here from city)

[@TommyLGarage]

Good eyeI! Funny we used to live in the city and I could not wait to get out into the suburbs.

[@drepop803]

I LOVE manual and will always choose that option. I do fully understand the speed of dual clutches and that some cars are just too fast for a manual. There are very few vehicles that I'd get in an auto(suv, pick up, super car) but i have to daily a manual.

[@TommyLGarage]

Agreed.

[@finagansbmw8210]

Purchased a manual M4 - love it ! Prefer it. But I do not hate a dct - I think they are awesome as well. Just a preference of mine

[@TommyLGarage]

Totally agree

[@jay_petrol]

Hi Tommy. Thanks for a great video. I'm just in the process of potentially switching from a Porsche GT4 to a M2 Competition, and the manual vs DCT is my main headache at the moment. Having driven the M2 Comp with both manual and DCT, I would say I pretty much agree with all of your reflections. DCT hyper quick and a preferred option for regular track visits. However It makes med feel a bit more of a passenger than pilot, even in manual mode. The car almost drives me. Manual however, gives me a sense of collaboration with the car, for good and bad. Still not decided but great help to sort my thoughts out by watching your video. Much appreciated!

[@TommyLGarage]

At the end they both feel special. Manual has an added bonus of feeling cool and unique. Also the added level of control by having a clutch pedal. Why get rid of the GT4??

[@jay_petrol]

@@TommyLGarage Even with my 911 I used to get the occasional company of my wife or one of the kids for a ride with the car, whereas the GT4 is considered being too loud and bumpy so it's mainly being used as a track tool. Also the speeds where I can really appreciate the fantastic qualities of my GT4 are ridiculously high and not very compatible with road legal speeds. I feel an M2 would be more versatile and also more appreciated by other family members as well. It seemed you had the high gloss black panel and not the carbon interior trim in your M3 - how has that been holding up to scratches and marks? (I am not a fan of the carbon trim offered with the M2 Comp.)

[@TommyLGarage]

Jajja_VXO ahh understood. In that case I suggest go for the M4 instead. M2 seems too simple inside and I feel like you don’t get much for your money. My interior is CF - it’s been holding up great and I’ve had zero issues. Maintenance helps

[@jay_petrol]

Tommy L Garage I”ll definitely check out the M4 as well. Thanks and cheers!

[@JacesOwnWorld]

Jajja_VXO go get the E92 M3 and supercharge it. You’ll get more of a thrill out if that than the F80 M3/M4. Trust me.

[@lusher00]

I started noticing some asymmetry in my body about 5 years ago. My right hip sits a few inches behind the left and my right shoulder is even further back. When I stand at a urinal my feet are in line but my shoulders are almost at a 30 degree angle. I also have terrible balance. The only thing I can think to explain this is working a clutch for the past decade. I love the manual, it is a lot more fun, but I bought a DCT M3 yesterday.

[@TommyLGarage]

If that’s the case then half of European population would be lopsided

[@lusher00]

Tommy L Garage I wouldn’t assume my experience is universal

[@NANGSGARAGE]

We have an RS3 and it’s fast! But automatic transmission gets boring quick

[@TommyLGarage]

That would be my biggest worry

[@masaishimitsu4010]

I think the manual is more fan to drive if you have car like M3 and if it has auto rev matching functions. But if you have to face the traffic jam as often as I do where I live, I will have to go for DCT. Great vlog as always!!

[@TommyLGarage]

Masa Ishimitsu nothing wrong with DCT - it’s much better suited for this car.

[@_f30_b58]

Wish I went 6speed. 😭

[@TommyLGarage]

Adrian Brolin sorry!

[@Yeer718]

Yes !

[@s.c.1972]

Thanks for this video - I’m in the market for a used F80 M3 and this is the million dollar question....

[@TommyLGarage]

Manual is the answer :)

[@RCFunTime]

Daily drive and in traffic, dct is the way to go.

[@s.c.1972]

I test drove a DCT - thinking I wouldn’t like it - but it shifted so fast and hard I loved it... but I’ve always preferred manuals...I need to drive a manual before I make up my mind. Nick Murray has a similar comparison video and said manual was more fun..gotta decide what is more important - all out speed + convenience vs. fun.

[@YankeePaul1]

I really enjoy the manual transmission in my 2017 M3. I mostly agree with Tommy. The rev-matching is a nice feature and is fine for cruising, but I almost always drive in the Sport-Plus throttle map as that mode switches off the rev-matching which makes the manual even more engaging. The auto-rev-match messes me up sometimes if I drive in comfort as I'm used to rev-match myself.

[@YankeePaul1]

I would like to add that the in-gear acceleration with the manual is greater with 50 lbs less weight and less mechanical power loss. The DCT makes up for that and then some with faster shifts though.

[@TommyLGarage]

Good point. Thanks !

[@hectorsanchez4753]

Manual is the best and more fun for me too, Thanks for doing this video.

[@TommyLGarage]

I agreee. Thanks for watching !

[@Rommellollis]

Manual will always be more involved and fun (Especially on track days). For traffic and everyday driving I would go for DCT, thats a no-brainer to me.

[@TommyLGarage]

Actually for me it’s the other way around. Daily a manual and DCT for track daysb

[@mikediazArtist]

DCT all day!!! The M3 DCT auto manual is nothing like a regular automatic transmission like in regular cars. The DCT shifts faster, safer because u always have both hands on the wheel and it can handle the rear whee power better, which will devour u on the track. I’ve driven both manual and DCT and the DCT feels like ditching tapes and CD players to stream on Spotify. Embrace the future because manuals will soon be a thing of the past. In fact, the G80 m3 will probably will be the last manual M3 that will be available.

[@TommyLGarage]

I love the manual

[@yusallooo4703]

I would want one of each to be honest. A daily dct and a manual for weekends

[@TommyLGarage]

True !

[@LetsFish204]

I'm also at this stage of my life now

[@milleranalytics]

You're making me wish I got the 6MT! Great review. I need to just be happy with the speed of the DCT.

[@TommyLGarage]

DCT is amazing - don’t get me wrong. But manual on any car feels special

[@scaredshot9162]

I own an e46 325i and I love the car as my first car it is so much fun however, the m4 being my dream car I would want it to have as much potential as it could and having that supercar feel you mentioned sounds surreal.

[@TommyLGarage]

It does feel great with DCT

[@bellisimosexy]

You should talk also about reliability !! Wish transmission is reliable in a long run .

[@TommyLGarage]

They are

[@smiIingman]

Personally i like manuals more because i feel like i have more control with it.

[@TommyLGarage]

Agreed !

[@kyzrsosay]

Very well narrated video. I think I'm actually considering a DCT now!

[@TommyLGarage]

Colin Murphy can’t go wrong with either. Thanks for watching!

[@flashspeed4931]

6 speed all day in my F80. It's like the scene in Avatar when when jake rides toruk makto. When you drive an M3 that's 6 speed you become one with the beast.

[@TommyLGarage]

Haha so true !

[@antonioderas3]

So I'm making a decision between the two coming from an s2000 with a well sorted trans,shifter and clutch and my dilemma is this... In everyway the dct seems to have the edge on the manual except the obvious driver engagement sense. But with all the technology in this car when it comes to the driver aid such as the not stalling out feature, automatic downshifts and having driven bmw and this specific bmw for a short time with the manual the shifter feel and clutch in a weird way seemed not as tight/direct. I would say a bit numb is the closest I can describe it. So... If I get the manual I'm afraid I will constantly be noticing the numbness of the controls and feel like I got something that's trying to be an enthusiast option but falls short on the actual dynamics of what driving a stick is all about and not just going in H pattern motions. If anyone has some prior experience in this topic I would love to hear it.

[@TommyLGarage]

I love my manual. Zero regrets

[@kennmateo6050]

Informative for someone looking to get into the platform!

[@TommyLGarage]

Thanks!

[@Serenity5460]

As a german, manual cars are the norm. I am really leaning towards automatic, it is seen as luxury here and I think my late night drives are more relaxing with automatic.

[@TommyLGarage]

But manual is more fun

[@mred1341]

having owned two M4’s one dct and now manual, manual is so much more fun. My M5 is dct, M5 sucks with a 6 speed

[@TommyLGarage]

Yes! I’m glad you said that

[@rgarnold4284]

I searched the entire country CPO inventory for an M4 convertible (years '18, '19, '20) with a clutch pedal manual. I could only find 2! All the others DCT. So I ordered one, probably will be one of the last with analog gauges. (I really dislike having an iPad dashboard, Musk fanatics notwithstanding.). Who knows whether BMW will discontinue clutch pedals in the US as Mercedes did in 2015. With a clutch pedal, you (must) drive the car, as famously said in Ford v Ferrari.

[@TommyLGarage]

Agreed and wow congrats on the car. Definitely unique !

[@AntwonDaBusiness]

The reason it’s aggressively shifting in drive is probably because you’re in transmission setting 2-3. It actually feels slow when the trans is in setting 1 regardless of throttle setting. Just FYI. The transmission setting determines how long it holds rpms so the more aggressive setting will hold higher rpms for much longer

[@TommyLGarage]

Understood. I later set it in the softest setting and it made a huge difference

[@AntwonDaBusiness]

@@TommyLGarage yeah the DCT is very much a jackel and hyde situation. it can be so aggressive when you want and so docile the next. i LOVE it.

[@mattd6264]

Efficient also lets the oil get hotter which I believe increases efficiency. Ill only go into efficient for long highway drives and it's giving me at least a 0.5l/100km difference.

[@TommyLGarage]

You are right. I actually got 32mpg on the highway across a 50 mile drive

[@Sna66.1]

Great review son. Manuals are great, but just not for me - maybe 10 years ago. I much rather the option to kick back and let the car do the shifting as a daily driver, and when I'm ready i can shift when I want without wearing out my knees. Also its shifts so fast, your super car analogy is on point.

[@TommyLGarage]

Thanks son! :)

[@eForty6]

Hi Tommy great comparison! I have 2 questions for you, which tune do you recommend for the Manual F80 and how do you use the anti stall function you spoke about. Just bought a 2016 manual and trying to learn as much as I can 😊

[@TommyLGarage]

Honestly I recommend no tune. These cars have plenty of power. The only reason why I did mine was to get rid of cold start because I leave my house so early in the morning for work and I did not want to wake up my wife and my neighbors. If you do decide to do it in my opinion Bootmod3 is the only tune thing to consider. www.kiesmotorsports.com/products/bootmod3-n13-beta?variant=16517566005363?aff=7

[@eForty6]

@@TommyLGarage perfect, thanks so much for your reply!

[@OGsince82]

I’m in the market for an M3, but still unsure which to get after watching this. I’ve had manuals before and it’s definitely more fun, but don’t know if it will be fun driving in BQE and FDR traffic. Most of my driving are city miles right now. You should make a video of driving your 6MT in bumper to bumper traffic. Might help some city drivers make an informed decision about which transmission to get.

[@TommyLGarage]

I’m from queens. Drove manuals all my life around the city. Never an issue. Go with the manual.

[@heku4068]

Manual is always the way to go when just cruising and doing some crazzy burnouts :)

[@TommyLGarage]

Yes !

[@lbarbato6425]

People from different countries have different views on this, in Aus the majority buy DCT in any brand that supplies cars in both manual and DCT. I have an M2 comp and DCT is the way to go, quicker and faster performance and great around town but yes, at times it can be a bit jerky in slow driving but it’s an M car. Salesman also talk up DCT above manuals and to me what they say I agree with. Different strokes for different folks I suppose.

[@TommyLGarage]

I grew up in Poland. Perhaps that’s why I prefer the manual

[@reyros24]

Oh man i am literally itching to buy my f80 now and i am so indecisive about manual or dct ... i would prefer manual tho but can't find one cheap enough

[@TommyLGarage]

Manual !

[@tintman831]

It's all about preference. That's it

[@TommyLGarage]

Agreed!

[@michaeleverson3801]

Do you find that the rev matching takes away from the experience at all? Nailing a perfect downshift with a healthy throttle blip is one of the funnest things about having a manual transmission. Do you miss this at all? Are you able to turn this feature on/off as you please?

[@TommyLGarage]

Nope. I love it. I have rev matching disabled in sport mode but I rarely use it.

[@michaeleverson3801]

@@TommyLGarage Good deal, thanks for the reply! Enjoy your vids, might be in the market for an M3 a few years down the road, so this is all good reference material for me.

[@josegarcia1209]

Sorry bro, you made the wrong choice DCT all the way! No comparison. Manual trans would be for 4Bangers (prod cars) only, if you're a knowledgeable car guy .Enjoy!

[@JulesAA88]

Nice review, if I lived in the country side my first choice would've been the manual Trans, but city traffic annoys me so I went with the DTC and it has been really fun. Drove my friend's Camaro SS (with manual trans) while on vacation and it just made me miss my DTC trans even more.

[@TommyLGarage]

Interesting point. The more I drive the DCt the more I like it.

[@MarcoAntonio-pn9mv]

Really nice comparison, this could very well be my next car so very helpful. Need to keep people buying manuels to keep them around

[@TommyLGarage]

I think the ship has sailed. More people prefer DCT. Manual will no longer be around in the coming years, especially if we all go electric

[@MarcoAntonio-pn9mv]

@@TommyLGarage 😂😂