how good is a BMW having both manual and automatic transmission, and how affordable it is, i am waiting. thanks

I don't understand your question - "at the same time." Do you mean owning 2 BMW's, one auto, the other manual?

Or a BMW with a switchable transmission? Please make your question clearer.

Hi sienna,

he means a triptonic transmission(sp) , the one you could switch from manual to auto transmission at will.

Ah Viperman, I understand now.

Tiptronic (Porsche patent) has come a long way since the old 3-speed automatics. I'm not sure when it was introduced in the BMW range, but it first appeared in Audi approx. 1996.

The premium of a BMW with Tiptronic transmission is unlikely to cost a great deal more than a regular automatic of similar year.

Tiptronic transmission is a lot more favourable on fuel economy, as there's a lot less "slippage", compared to a regular automatic. Still not a match for a manual gearbox with dry clutch, but pretty close, and a far cry from the old generation auto's.

You won't have a dipstick to check the fluid level, but it doesn't mean it doesn't exist - it does. Always make sure at each service, the level IS checked. They have an external oil cooler, incorporated in the radiator - the 2 pipes are visible at the left-hand side of the radiator, when facing the front of the car. They are stainless, so no issues with corrosion.

hi siena