SMG vs. Manual

[Vert]

Re: E36 M3 Evo

I know SMG is essentially an auto box, but when in manual mode, is it the same 0-60, etc, as the normal manual? Any other performance differences?

Also, can the economy of SMG in manual be as good as a normal manual?

[Defector]

Forgive me if i'm wrong but...


...i was under the impression that SMG is actually a manual box technically. It has a clutch not a torque converter and works a lot more like a manual. Plus, it changes exactly when you say.

SSG and Steptronic boxed (like i have on my 5) are automatic boxes, but with a pretend manual option. Although you can knock it up and down gears, the computer is still in control.

SMG = automatically controlled manual box
Step= Manually controlled automatic box

Subtle difference i know, but worlds apart in practice as far as i'm aware.

As for times, i'd expect the SMG to be quicker thanks to millisecond gear changes and lack of time off the accelerator.

[benny boy]

i thought smg was auto and slightley slower 0/60 about half a secound i think than a normal gearbox. i am sure that was what lee told me when was looking at a smg when he was going to get a m3 :)

[lee330sport]

SMG is a manual 6 speed gearbox, same as the normal 6speeder. But it can also be used as an automatic car but doesnt work as well as a traditional automatic gearbox with a torque converter.I dont think the SMG is as quick off the line as you cant realy control the launch as much as you'd like to, but through the gears id say its alittle quicker than the manual.

[peppernick]

SSG, SMG and SMG2 are all manual boxes with hydraulic actuated shift linkages. (Software and hence shift characteristic is different)

Steptronic is the only true auto gearbox with manual override.

[CA Automotive UK]

as Lee says ..no Torque converter ( see alex , i WAS right , if youy are reading this ...just remember uncle Roy is always right :p ) , initial pull away in a manual is normally a bit quicker , but SMG wins out on moving shift times .
I still prefer manual tho any day

[AlpinaAl]

as Lee says ..no Torque converter ( see alex , i WAS right , if youy are reading this ...just remember uncle Roy is always right :p ) , initial pull away in a manual is normally a bit quicker , but SMG wins out on moving shift times .
I still prefer manual tho any day


yer yer, I couldnt remember after my misson drive to wales trying to figure out where we were going :p brain had an overload.

I have the manual and I prefer it to the SMG but everyone has there own preferance