[s-cars] SSK

[alexander witham]

Paul,

I've never driven a Testarossa, only an F355, so I
can't speak intelligently on the Testarossa's shifter
feel, but I would imagine from the numerous writings
I've read that you are indeed correct the Apikol is
vastly superior. However, nobody has ever claimed
Ferrari made great shifting cars. The F355 was a blast
to drive and I like the way it shifts, you have to be
very deliberate and precise, but I wouldn't say it's a
great shifting car, at least not from a standpoint of
performance. I like the feel, but I know people who
find it annoying and prefer the F1 paddles. Certainly
not in the same vain as a 911 with factory SSK, or
without SSK for that matter. 

I've never understood the fascination with BMW
shifters myself. I'm not all that impressed with any
of the newer BMW's I've driven. I find there's a bit
of a rubbery feel to the shifter. This seems to have
become worse over the years. I have an older 5 series
that I maintain feels better than the newer cars. 

I must admit, though that I like a VERY tight feel,
throw is secondary to me. In other words, I don't care
if there's a long throw as long as it feels good. A
short throw with no feel doesn't do it for me. I want
to experience a very mechanical feel when I shift.

 One of my favorites is the '00-'02 S4 with a Miltek
SSK. At first it felt weird (the SSK moves the shifter
forwards in its pattern), but within 5 minutes I was
loving it. Very precise, easy to shift quickly and
great weight. Quite amazing considering how sloppy the
standard 6 speed is. The other is the Mustang Cobra 5
speed with a SSK and cut down shifter. I don't recall
what SSK that one was, but what a difference over
stock. Of course, the shifter is too far forward and
ultimately it will hurt your shoulder having to lean
forward to reach it constantly, but it sure is fun to
shift. 

So like I said, if the Bilcatz1 will further improve
the Apikol, I'm getting it.


Alex


PS - I envy you having driven all those luscious
Ferrari's. If you ever need someone to help you out
with that, just let me know!




		
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