Upgrading to a Bimmer in the future

[RicerElite]

Hey guys!

I am upgrading cars in the next couple months and I have my eyes set on a 335i coupe or a 135i coupe. I am kind of struggling to choose between the two lol I love both cars and think they are awesome but does the 135 handle noticeably better than the 335? This will be my DD but I do plan on doing a couple autocross events every summer and potential a track day or two. So far I have test driven a 335 coupe with the auto tranny and have loved everything about it, the ride, the seats, the torque.

Also, my budget is $25k so I will be looking into a used one so the issue of the transmission arises. How long does the Auto tranny usually hold up, is the manual just a far superior option? I've had a manual for the past 10 years and am kind of tired of the daily grind in a manual which is why I am leaning towards the auto with the paddle shifters lol

I appreciate any help fellas!

I come from a FWD ricebox lol so I don't have much experience with RWD, especially BMWs

[Lord Vader]

Their is more aftermarket support for the 335 then their is the 135. I prefer the 335 for appearances. As for the transmission they will last a long time as long as properly cared for. Meaning fluid changes every 50,000 miles.