1st time: engine starts, but car won't shift
2nd time: engine starts and car shifts
3rd time: what happens?

 

3rd times a charm : )

 

My 2009 Mazda RX-8 has keyless ignition and a removable starting device (sorta like a key/paddle thing). I believe you'll find the removable versions of this tech all originate from the late 00s. It was a transitional strategy for when the keyless tech was initially being implemented. If it was an early optional extra with a low or unknown take rate, the implementation was pretty rudimentary; i.e. removable key replacement devices. Once the tech was more common, the implementations became more comprehensive; i.e. non-removable and fully integrated buttons.

Additional interesting transitional bit of tech: the Mazda's key fob was the size and shape of a fat credit card that you could ostensibly fit in your wallet. In practice, it's too fat to really fit in a wallet, but it's a unique and somewhat interesting form factor. Seems people prefer more compact, lumpier fobs in the end.

 

Something like this?https://i.ytimg.com/vi/eSl_yy6k1og/maxresdefault.jpg

 

Like that, but with more buttons. What year/model is that from?

 

Many many models such as CL such as C215, C216, older SL such as R230, older S-Class such as W220.