I currently drive a 2000 Mercedes e320 which I own because one year ago my beloved 1995 Mercedes E300 Diesel was totaled by an idiot who rear ended me at 60 mph.

But that's another story. While the e320 has been a very dependable car, Mercedes went Lexus on us be making it much softer than the prior e-type. Its a disappointing car if you like to really experience driving.
So yesterday I went to the local BMW dealer and test drove a standard transmission 325i and absolutely loved it! It was pretty bare bones by BMW standards in that it had manual seats and no iDrive, which suits me just fine.
I guess my questions just involve hearing your thoughts on the new 3-series:
- I have a certain trepidation about buying a car in the first year the model comes out. Anybody else have those concerns?
- I haven't owned a standard tranny in 20 years, but love the control. Anybody else go back to standard after a long time in an automatic?
- Any other thoughts or concerns I should have?
And BTW, I have some BMW experience. When I lived overseas I drove a standard tranny 1984 318i (right hand drive). That was a fun car! I also ride a 2003 BMW R1150R motorcycle.