Quote:
Originally Posted by Richbot
FWIW, I'm almost never in 5th for more than a few seconds anyway, if that. Just like every BMW I've ever owned, this engine is as happy to putter along at 1500rpm as it is to run up to redline. So, I select the tallest gear possible once I get to whatever cruising speed I'm going to be driving, even if that's only 40mph. Only time I foresee needing 5th is at 142mph (8300 rpm in 4th). 
If you pay attention to how automatic transmissions shift, this is a large part of why they are starting to get higher EPA ratings than manuals in some models, including some BMW's. Most people just don't drive their manual cars like that, and the testing reflects "typical" driving behavior. |
Doesn't the auto E9x 328i stay at 5th gear unless you manually change it? When do you notice your engine starting to lug?