Yeah, DSG is damn fast. ~20ms shifts in auto mode. I think both types of sequential shifters are going to go dual clutches or dual torque converters in the future or at least until they can come up with a CVT that can withstand the power of current performance cars.

SMG is a great transmission, no argument there. But, it looks like many people confuse the Nissan 5AT to the old style ATs. The 5AT is ~12lbs heavier than the 6MT and most of that is from the extra fluids. The 5AT incorporates a low-intertia planetary gear set as opposed to friction plates, gear spindle and weighted flywheel. The 5AT uses a stator in the the TC that actually makes it more efficient by converting excess energy in the fluid into more torque by redirecting it back to the impeller fan (engine side). The 5AT also uses lock-up clutches which will lock the fans together mechanically like the 6MT. There is no fluid loss when the TC is locked. If you drive it aggressively, the 5AT will shift pretty fast. I've heard that is around 200ms. The Ferrari F1 is about 150ms and SMGII is about 80ms.

 

To explain my opinion on this matter, here is a quote from Jeremy Clarkson, the presenter of a popular (and very good!) British TV series called "Top Gear".

 

Clarkson hates "flappy-paddle" gearboxes. But he also is not a very good track driver (note: the episode where he tried to get around the Ring in less than 10 minutes in a Jag Diesel).

On the track -- an SMG really comes alive. And yes -- you do feel like Shoooomacher. I was able to left foot brake all day long and really concentrate on my lines as opposed to heel-toe acrobatics. SMG is really an amazing thing. And I am sorry -- but the 5AT would be a poor replacement for an SMG at track days. But then again -- I don't suspect that many 5AT guys track their cars.

That said -- I do love my manual tranny in my current Z. There is nothing like the raw feel of the quick shifts as you accelerate out of a tight corner. And there is nothing like a perfectly executed two gear heel-toe downshift as you are hard on the brakes.

 

I agree!!!!

Cesar
2004 350ZR 5AT (Soon APS TT)
Visit Us at http://oZoc.org

 

I agree that Clarkson is a tool (did you see his 350Z review, followed by his RX-8 review?) but I see that you also agree that there's nothing that beats a clutch for the fun factor.

 

Nissan has a 350Z for wheelchair drivers. Only avail in Japan, but if you know any hooks, you can get that kind of stuff maybe.

 

OK, I think I can tie in to the existing Shift Switches, I just need some paddles. Anyone know where I can get a set?

 

Wow! You're certainly a brave individual using your Z as a test vehicle. If you get it to work let us know how it went.

 

Use an old Hungry Hungry Hippo.

 

Im all for it. Im tyring to source those paddles still though..

Thought about Looking for some form another manufacturer, What cars come with them Stock?

Looked at adapting them from a game console steering wheel (kinda Cheezy but might work..)

If that dont work, I might have to go the Pushbutton Route, Should be cheatp that way...

If anyone has a source for paddles let me know.

Thanks

 

You're right that smg is different than an AT. But people don't buy SMG because it's not an automatic. They buy it because it is an automatic. All those rich people who can't drive stick buy SMG because they don't want to drive a real car with a real transmission like a man.

 

Fools and their opinions ... give it a rest.

 

+1

 

sq40, i to have the same thought, why not tie into the existing shift switches at the shifter, would be easier and be the same shifting, just instead of pushing the handle forware and back just push the buttons.

On that note, i think nissan got the shifting function backwades. you should pull the handle back to shift up and foreward to shift down, my 2 cents.

Just need some paddles, if not ill make my own. Hmm shot maybe i should just make my own anyways

 

How many track days have you been to, "man"?

 

Anyone heard about the new DUAL TRANSMISSION from Audi? I think the new A6 next year will be getting it. In manumatic mode, the shifts are less than 10ms! Basically instantaneous. I saw a preview of it in either last or this months Popular Science.

You might be able to find out more info on Audi's site... hopefully future cars will all have this

 

DSG has been around for a while. I think it's the fastest transmission right now due to having dual gear spindles. Go directly to Audi's website and I think it is the standard transmission on one of the TTs. The new SMGIII might not be as fast as the DSGII but I think it might have better shift profiles.

 

Ok, think i came up with a design in my head about creating shifting pads for the Z. Itll take me some time and proto typing, drawings and so on. Ill let you know how it goes.