I've owned two 3-series, and have driven a lot of different cars (sold used cars in the past). The manual definitely isn't up to par compared to the BMW, doesn't feel as precise, and don't think I can shift it as fast (I've had the car less than a week). I'd say it's a little "rubbery." It's not bad though, I'm not turned off. Plus I didn't expect much different considering Mercedes has never been known to have the best feeling manual transmissions like BMW (and Honda) do.