The advent of automatic transmissions is slowly leading to the decline of manual gearboxes. The main premise of these developments is that manual cars are losing their market share progressively. Despite having slightly more market share than in the past, the future seems bleak for manual vehicles. As further proof of this, BMW, a leading global automaker, is launching a special edition of its M3 model dubbed the M3 MT Final Edition. This article delves into the specifics of the M3 MT Final Edition and explores the reasons behind BMW’s decision to wind down manual transmission sales.
The M3 MT Final Edition: A Commemorative Farewell to Manual Transmissions
In celebration of the 35th anniversary of its debut win at the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM), BMW has created the M3 MT Final Edition. MT is an abbreviation for Manual Transmission, reinforcing the fact that this edition marks the end of BMW’s line of manual vehicles. The model will be exclusively available to Japanese customers and only 150 units will be produced. Each unit will be equipped with a standard three-pedal system and a 3.0-liter twin-turbo S58 straight-six engine.
Customization and Design of the M3 MT Final Edition
BMW will manufacture the limited 150 units in three distinct colors: Alpine White, Black Sapphire, and M Brooklyn Gray. Each color will have 50 units. All units will have gold wheels and seat accommodations highlighted in red. These aesthetic details serve as a tribute to BMW’s iconic E30-generation M3 DTM race car that was famously driven by Roberto Ravaglia.
User Demand and Pricing
BMW anticipates a high demand for the M3 MT Final Edition with its unique attributes and limited availability. There is a contingency plan in place to institute a lottery system in case the number of orders surpasses the units set for manufacture. Bearing a price tag of around $95,000, the M3 MT will undeniably be a premium offering.
The Implications of Manual Expiry
BMW’s intentions to phase out manual transmission sales are common knowledge in the automobile industry. Four models with manual transmissions are currently on sale in the United States—the M2, M3, M4, and Z4. However, BMW board member Frank Weber ominously hinted at a prospective cessation of manual M cars, urging potential buyers to act swiftly if they desired a manual M car.
Advice for Purists
BMW’s decision to wind down manual transmission sales may come as a blow to manual driving enthusiasts. If you’re an aficionado who cherishes the tactile pleasure of shifting gears yourself, it would be wise to heed Weber’s advice and make your purchase before these cherished machines completely disappear from the car market.
In conclusion, BMW’s recent move underscores a broader industry trend that sees the gradual dissolution of manual transmissions. Comfort, efficiency, and a reduced learning curve are among the advantages driving the popularity of automatic transmissions. However, the production of the M3 MT Final Edition reminds us of the thrilling engagement that manual transmissions offer—a feature that some car enthusiasts will undeniably miss.