[BillK]

OK, as an update:

I replaced the transmission oil this morning with the MTF LT5 since the dealer reassured me that oil is what they are told to use.
My initial impressions are that it DOES shift better than before. Its significantly less "notchy" when going into gear, and pops out of gear with a little less effort. The difference isnt dramatic "night and day", but it is noticably better.
Also, it seems the car rides more quiet on the highway. I'm glad that I did it,

A few notes:
The old oil had about 27.5k miles on it and it was very dark.
I managed to pump in approximately 2.3 liters of new fluid.
The cheapo electric oil pump from ebay is great (total pumping time was about 1 minute). A second pair of hands (assistant/wife) is very helpful for this step.
I needed a second jack to lift the front end up (from the front left jacking point) enough to fit the main jack under the central lifting point.
Flat top Esco jack stands are awesome.
When jacking the back up, stay clear of the shiny aluminum cover on the diff. Jack from the portion that's flat and looks like brownish cast steel.
Use hockey pucks with your jacks when jacking up the car at both ends.

Also, about 2 weeks ago I retroffited the shift knob with the illuminated M5 knob. That also helps in shifting as the throw is shorter and the knob a bit heavier. A nice mod.