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      05-16-2010, 05:38 PM   #61
captainaudio
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Drives: M4 Cab - Cayenne GTS - Jag XK
Join Date: Jul 2007
Location: Upper East Side Manhattan - Boca Raton FL - Lime Rock CT

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The performance differences and shift time differences between the two transmissions is moot. Take two identical M3s, one with a 6 speed and 1 with a DCT to the track and let two drivers take them around the track. The driver that is faster in the 6 speed will also be faster in the DCT and each drivers times with both cars will be very similar.

Once you get rid of the clutch the technology that is doing the shifting is incidental. The transmssion either shifts well or it doesn't and whether it is a DCT, an SMG or a "conventional" automatic with planetary gears or a midget in the trunk that is responding to signals sent from the paddles is incidental.

As far as I am concerned if it can shift automatically it is an automatic transmission. Calling it an "automated manual" of a "manually controlled automatic" is a discussion of semantics not technology.

Transmission choice is strictly a matter of personal preference. There are very good and very bad drivers who drive both types and a good driver will be able to get the car to perform with either transmission.

As for the "my left foot needs something to do" argument, F1 drivers and many ALMS drivers left foot brake.

CA
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Last edited by captainaudio; 05-16-2010 at 05:43 PM..
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