[Z06] Paddle Shifting
Advanced
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 81
Likes: 0
From: Boston MA
I have driven the 03 BMW M3 with SMG2 quite a bit. However, this system is not an auto, but rather a automated manual. The computer controls the clutch and assists with the throttle by matching RPMs on downshifts. It is amazing how good it is. I haven't driven the Ferrari F1 system 
, but the BMW system is reportedly much better anyway. There are no problems making it do exactly what you want it to. It may be a tenth slower from a dead stop, but it is as good if not better than an expert everywhere else. Shifts feel sportbike quick and downshifts are always perfect.
I think this would be an awesome technology for the Z06.
On a related note I drove a Z06 today and really liked it. I think the M3 is just a tad faster.
Just kidding of course. I might have to buy the Z now. I suspected this might happen if I drove it.
, but the BMW system is reportedly much better anyway. There are no problems making it do exactly what you want it to. It may be a tenth slower from a dead stop, but it is as good if not better than an expert everywhere else. Shifts feel sportbike quick and downshifts are always perfect.I think this would be an awesome technology for the Z06.
On a related note I drove a Z06 today and really liked it. I think the M3 is just a tad faster.
Just kidding of course. I might have to buy the Z now. I suspected this might happen if I drove it.
Advanced
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 81
Likes: 0
From: Boston MA
Btw, the IS300 and RX8 (I think) are automatic transmissions.
The Ferrari F1 and BMW SMGs are manual transmissions with electronic control of the shifter and clutch and some throttle control.
These are completely different animals.... I think it is safe to imagine that if the Z06 gets paddle shifts it will be of the sort Ferrari and BMW have... It's probably not good to base opinions of this technology on slushboxes with paddles added.
The Ferrari F1 and BMW SMGs are manual transmissions with electronic control of the shifter and clutch and some throttle control.
These are completely different animals.... I think it is safe to imagine that if the Z06 gets paddle shifts it will be of the sort Ferrari and BMW have... It's probably not good to base opinions of this technology on slushboxes with paddles added.
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Le Mans Master
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 6,661
Likes: 1
I used it a few times when I first got my IS300.
Manumatics are much better than a standard auto, IMO, but nothing like a sequential manual box.
X
Le Mans Master
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 8,117
Likes: 67
From: USA
I have a friend in Atlanta that has an Enzo. The shifting took some getting acustom to in traffic. It changes instantly and just crusing you find yourself in a higher or lower gear than you want to be in. I am sure it would be fine after a little seat time. However, my friend wanted to see how fast the Enzo would really go and he asked me to drive. At just under 200 MPH the enormus BANG was the transmission. The car is back in Italy now for repairs. A mechanic should have come with it! Luck for us nothing locked up. My vote is for paddle shifting. When dog ring transmissions came out they cut almost two seconds a lap of most road course times. True F1 paddle shifting will be faster.