Posted by Michael Longeneker on January 26, 2000 at 15:41:14:
In Reply to: What are your opinions on 4 spd? posted by Dave P on January 25, 2000 at 15:35:50:
Make sure to get the right unit. Earlier units may have the same final ratio as a 4 speed, causing you to shift more and enjoy it less (especially in stop and go traffic). You want the overdrive model (Getrag 265od) that came in later 528i models. The trannies from 83 on Motronic engines have the overdrive but no speedometer hook up for your e-12. I just bought an e-28 (85 535i) and it is much quieter and more economical on the freeway than my 530i (4-speed). Am pondering the idea of switching to the "long" rear end (3.07:1) in the e-12 to get that cruising thing happening. This approach will compromise off the line performance but I'm more into comfort and mileage than hot rodding about. Has anybody tried this?