Brian T 
2004 BMW M3 Convertible 2dr Convertible (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
E46 M3 Convertible w/SMG is octogenarian's dream!
 I just turned 80 and I Knew what to expect from an e46 M3 w/SMG; (drove a silver Coupe for 5 years before it got totaled)  Just bought a pristine, carbon black convertible instead of a motorcycle.  SMG requires smooth driving style to avoid jerky behavior that many people can't seem to learn to overcome.  I would put my SMG up against any 6 speed manual, and when you switch to automatic, your wife can drive it. Otherwise, I set my shift pattern on 5 bars and paddle shift.  Must have the correct limited slip differential fluid from BMW to avoid jerky shifts and grinding noises during tight turns. I replaced stock exhaust with Rogue Engineering rasp eliminator, and a Remus axle back muffler system..sweet mellow tone and no rasp. To enjoy top down driving at speed, you'll need a simple to install wind deflector.