MINI’s decision to keep the six speed Aisin automatic for the next generation F56 was seen as a surprise when announced last week. While MINI promises some mechanical improvements along with completely revamped software, it’s still seen as rather long in the tooth as compared to some of the more advanced offerings in the marketplace.... (visit MotoringFile for the full article) More...
Ugh 9 speed auto-tragic really? Like someone needs that? Real drivers drive manuals. Long live "The Stick"
Ah I was waiting for that post. These new automatics are pretty darn incredible. Quite a bit of interesting technology is packed into these things. Also, the legislation all over the world to lower emissions and increased mileage are driving these the need for these transmissions. Much like it is hard to find a new car with drum brakes the manual transmission is fading into the sunset. I may not like it, but it is something we are all going to have to live with.
I know but people are taking all the FUN out of everything. If everyone wants to mess up the world please wait until I die so I can enjoy what's left that is still legal and FUN.
LOL..... Fiat was involved in grabbing the ZF capacity away from MINI.... Snicker Snicker Snicker... Once ZF opens the production flood gates (they’re currently limited to 400,000 units a year) MINI and BMW will have a crack. So when capacity catches up in 2015.... will the Fiat 500 jump in and grab the new capacity???
Some folks want automatics, that's OK with me. I have a choice & I checked the 6 speed box. Don't understand what the problem is? Heck it's going into an F56 so I know I won't be bothered by it.
Personally, I'd love to have 1.. or 2... or 3 more gears. Would help with fuel economy when cruising at <redacted> Dave, I know my auto tranny is a HUGE handicap. But it's the only thing that lets the other guys keep up at the Dragon. :devil:
Re auto trans, if it was good enough for Jim Hall it's good enough for me. On the other hand, I have a manual because it's more fun. Less "efficient" but more involvement with the machine. On the other other hand, I don't think we need 4th gear. If I go into 4th at all it's just briefly on the way to 3rd or 5th.
And to think Jim Hall used a 2 speed power-glide in his Chaparral. Guess that shows what a boat load of torque will d for ya.
Yep I'm sure they had loads of back door support by GM. That being said Jim Hall & his crew were real innovators. I sure miss that aspect of motorsport today.