Which is better? Automatic or manual transmission? This is a common question on a number of platforms. Are manual transmission cars better than automatic transmissions? Are manual transmissions the real cars? Do manual transmissions offer better driver experience? Let’s take a look at some areas of consideration before making a conclusion.
It’s quite likely that you already have a preference. It’s still quite difficult to state exactly which kind is better than the other. Each transmission has its advantages and disadvantages. Choosing either of the two is a matter of personal opinion. Lets begin by understanding some of the pros and cons of manual transmission.
Manual transmission vehicles are a little bit cheaper to purchase. You will save a few dollars on the same model as compared to its automatic version. Reason being that very few people prefer them to automatic transmission. Many drivers of late have trained on automatic transmission and trying out a manual car seems like piloting a plane.
Manual transmission vehicles are also cheaper to maintain because they have simple components of the engine. The engine parts also rarely fail.
Manual transmission cars heavily rely on the clutch and the gear. If the clutch fails, then trouble sets in and you will have to dig so deep into your pocket to resuscitate your car.
Manual transmissions have always been deemed to have better fuel economy as compared to their automatic versions. This was true in the past. However, modern automatic transmission vehicles surpass them on this because they are better designed. The new technology ensures that you receive the best mileage possible per the least possible amount of fuel used.
Manual transmissions also offer the driver better control of the vehicle. You decide where and when to shift the gear. The driver shifts the gear in anticipation of the conditions of the road ahead. The driver controls the shifting of the gears as s/he holds the gear lever, and operates how the clutch is pressed.
This is an advantage if you are overtaking too because you can derive the boost in anticipation for this. Most drivers feel so good being in control of the car and dictating how it should behave.
Automatic transmissions, on the other hand, are specially designed to select the best gear as per the condition of the road and your leg on the pedal.
Majority of vehicles hitting the market of late have automatic transmission. This therefore means that very few drivers care to go old school and learn how to drive the manual shift. This is actually the reason why we see very few manual transmission vehicles on the road these days. In fact, in some countries like The United States, manual transmission vehicles being sold are actually less than 10%.
In addition, in some countries like the US, there are very few thieves that would dare steal a manual car because they don’t know how to drive it. More than 90% of Americans can’t use a manual car and majority of car thieves fall into this bracket.
Benefits of Automatic Transmissions:
An automatic transmission changes gears for you as it should at specified range of engine revs. This takes place with the fluid press build up in the torque converter. This is a marvelous system for those that like cruising around.
However, if you are looking for something sporty or a car for racing, then a manual transmission might be a better option. This this is because a manual transmission allows the driver to control the car’s picking using the gear. This is essential in car racing.
Modern high end racing cars and sports cars now offer tiptronic transmission also known as Sportmatic or Steptronic transmission. The paddles are located behind the steering wheel that gives the driver easy control of the gears without the need to operate the clutch. The driver is able to move out of “automatic mode” and use paddle shifters to shift up or down like a manual transmission.
Automatic transmission cars are easier to drive. Shifting manual transmission gears gets easier with time but it’s cumbersome. But an automatic transmission is more convenient. Driving an automatic car is more comfortable and enjoyable. Gear shifts are quicker and smoother in new automatic cars.
Automatic cars are also safer to drive. There is no need to use one hand to change gears, therefore both hands can comfortably rest on the steering wheel.
Automatic transmissions are better when moving from a dead stop. They also reduced the risk of stalling in traffic or at the traffic lights. Also, getting stuck in heavy traffic feels better in an automatic transmission than in a manual car.
Which is better?
This is entirely your personal choice. It all depends on the reason for acquiring the car. Is it intended for commuting around the city? Racing? Whatever you decide to buy, let it suit your needs and preferences. Or better yet, you could go for a semi-automatic transmission vehicle.
