Let's assume for a second that Porsche had already introduced their long awaited PDK ("Porsche Double Klutch")/DSG system.

and let's also assume that it was in its 2nd or even 3rd generation, so all of the kinks had been worked out. the reviews were solid, and let's say that it is at least as good as the DSG system employed on the Audi TT/Bugatti Veyron (meaning, supposedly better than the best comparable BMW SMG, Lambo e-Gear and Ferrari F1 system out there).

in other words, let's assume for the sake of this argument that it WORKS WELL, and is also COMPLETELY RELIABLE. finally, imagine that it would allow PSM and all other aids to be shut off, so all the hardcore track guys could hang the tail out and burn rubber to their heart's content.

would you then buy your next Porsche with this system, or stay with a 6-speed?

am just asking because i can't decided which i would prefer. sure the future points towards such semi-auto boxes for performance cars (motorsports at the highest level-- F1, WRC and GT cars most obviously-- all use sequential trannies almost exclusively). and the ability to keep both hands on the wheel to focus on steering, and freeing up the feet to do go-kart style pedalling is intuitively a more efficient set-up than a traditional stick shift.

having said all that, there's the satisfaction of a properly executed heel-and-toe downshift, the joy of slotting a precision tranny into gear, and just that overall sense of being in control, rather than having a computer do things for you.

but how much of this is just old fogeys clinging to what they know (can't teach an old dog new tricks,) and backward thinking machismo: "real men shift their own gears! i don't need any computers!"

again, let's make the simplifying assumption that Porsche PDK will be as good as the hype, and will be suitable for both daily driving and hardcore track work.

i wouldn't be able to make up my mind...

 

No big problems for me...If I buy a PORSCHE I want it in munual...In my honest opinion a car like that must be driven with every part of the body...that MUST be a complete fisical experience.
If I want an automatic I just get a MB or BMW, Audi.

 

Ditto, that's what driver involvement is all about. It would not matter to me that I could not shift as fast, I want to be in control and involved with as much of the powertrain as possible.

 

PDK, without hesitation. I snap perfect downshifts all day long driving to friggin' Target, who cares.

The ability to left foot brake and keep my hands on the wheel at all times > any satisfaction from properly executed downshifts.

 

Manual only. The novelty of an automated transmission would wear off quickly.

 

I'd rather pull my fingernails out with a rusty pair of pliers than drive a flappy paddle Porsche.

Porsche is one of the last companies to build true sports cars with the understanding that driver involvement and skill are actually good things.

 

Call me old fashioned, but manual for me.

 

PDK me please. I would try it first to see if Porsche got it right.

 

Honestly, I'd be interested in trying it out. It may dilute the driving experience but there might be gains elsewhere. Porsche uses it on their race cars so it couldn't be all bad. I'd want to try it out first and then decide.

 

NO PDK for me.

 

PDK for sure....

Its like would you buy a black & white TV when color is out and proven? or how many today would buy a rear projection with LCDs and Plasma available?

Although change is hard, we have to evolve with technology...

My 2 cents

 

For me, these cars are all about driving fulfillment, so has to be manual. If I were racing then I'd opt for DSG/PDK.

 

Please don't fall into the Ferrari trap. Any system they used on a production car would be pretty damn far removed from a race version, and the only reason flappy paddles exist on some race cars is that it's a consistency bandaid in situations where a missed shift can cost you a position.

The marketeers would love you to believe that flappies are there because the factory knows you're a mad tite racer, yo, and need those split second shifts, but in reality on street cars, it's a bandaid to make people who can't drive suck less.

 

I just can't picture a Porsche 911 without a manual tranny...?

The last 'raw' car maker out there...?

 

no no no !