Turning the engine off in '1' and then switch to 'N' - from whence?

[Pip1968]

I thought I would post this up as it preys on my mind every so often. Obviously I have not read the handbook cover to cover but where did this stem from and why is it not highlighted in the handbook - or is it???

For those that do not know what I am talking about, I am talking about the 'suggested' procedure for shutting the engine down (some may not even be doing it). This is of course turning the engine off whilst in gear '1' and then as it shuts down, moving the gear stick to 'N' before removing the keys. This of course assists when it comes to starting the engine again.

Does everyone do this - ? I do not remember the seller telling me this but picked it up from the old BM3W site (or whatever it was called).

I am also fairly sure that most of the 'tea boys' at the dealerships do not do this as you notice the slight delay in starting her up on picking her up/collection.

Finally do all the BMW SMG cars benefit from this or just our older generation cars - what about other makes with 'SMG' ????

Pip