yep. the automatic part is what kills it. all that power seems a waste when you can't control the gears and feel like you're being left out. I had the 4.6 and now looking for an 01-03 5 Speed 3.0

The handling is great and the power is enough for me, and this is coming from an m3 owner. If you're in it for the fun factor, I would drive that car. Just as long as you can find one with a sport package. so far I've only found one.