Quote:
Originally Posted by Artemis
Manual gearbox optimization: that's something I also noticed when reading the M2 Competition press kit: "The new BMW M2 Competition comes as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox, which stands out with its compact design and low weight. The use of a new type of carbon-fibre friction lining enhances shift comfort. An engagement speed control function, which blips the throttle on downshifts and lowers the engine’s revs on upshifts, makes gear changes even smoother. This also lends the car additional stability during hard driving on the track. Switching off the DSC deactivates the engagement speed control function. Wet-sump lubrication prevents any sloshing of the transmission oil and ensures all components benefit from an efficient supply of oil." In an early M2 test review some US journalist mentioned "rubbery feel" about the 6MT shifting. And those words spread like a virus among car journalists: "Great manual gearbox, yeah, but a bit of a rubbery feel though".
OK, if you drive a Cayman GT4 and M2 back-to-back, you'll notice that shifting the GT4 gearbox is superior (not gonna raise the topic of the often criticized long 2nd gear ratio of the GT4). Otherwise, IMHO that "rubbery feel" argument is a bit placebo-effect nitpicking.
But, anyways, it seems that BMW M had a closer look into it.
Technology moves on. With the M2 Competition you got the latest BMW technology on offer. |
Artemis I think that this carbon fiber friction lining was also mentioned when M2 was originally released. It's on every BMW M2 landing site describing the 6MT:
"
Designed to be both light and compact, the M 6-speed manual transmission is synonymous with intelligent lightweight construction. Inside the transmission, the new carbon fibre friction lining in the baulk rings provides more comfortable gear shifts, and a dry sump lubrication system ensures a more efficient supply of oil."
So nothing changed.