hp is a function of torque and RPM. So even if a car has 100 lb-ft of torque, but 240 hp, it means that it may take longer to make peak hp, but eventually the engine creates more power than a 185 hp 185 lb-ft torque engine. It's why japanese cars have "high end" power. a lude is faster than a p.o.s. c230 in the straights and in the curves, given the right transmission and driver.

the 40 lb-ft torque difference between an mbz and a lude only matters off the line, where your RPM's will be at their lowest. if you hit redline and shift quickly, your next gear should be engaging while the engine is at 5500 rpm, which is of course the sweet spot, and your low torque, high hp engine won't have to worry about not having low end torque. for the most part, it IS all about gear ratios and final drive.

on mbz: even AMG models are worthless because MBZ refuses to put a real transmission in their "sports sedans" i'm sorry but i will never ever ever want to drive a 550 hp "manumatic" because i'd rather not let a torque converter and a computer decide how much power i want to put down and when. don't let the mbz drivers convince you otherwise--they're not sports cars, they're high speed soccer mom vehicles and an utter waste of money if you care the least bit about performance. it's sad to see BMW following suit with all of their "paddle shifters" and CVT's.

they want me to spend 120,000 on a new 6 series, but not give me a proper 6speed transmission?

never.