This model is actually fairly spartan in its options and features (at least the E46 and E390 variants were) and it's not unusual to find stick shift models purchased by older guys who just want a fun sports sedan. … Unfortunately, a number of commenters seized upon the 320i example – to the point of turning it into a strawman – as a means of criticizing my thesis (that a premium auto maker's quest for volume and short term profits will ultimately erode that brand equity ..