Stick Vs. Automatic: Making the Right Choice for You
Long ago, manual transmissions were mostly reserved for muscle cars and performance vehicles while automatics were for family sedans and “conservative” drivers. That’s an overly-simplistic way of thinking about it, but it represents the image that a lot of drivers have. In truth, the decision regarding which type of transmission to drive is actually more complicated. In this article, we’ll explore a few important factors you should consider before making your choice.
Fuel Efficiency
Stick shift vehicles have always delivered better gas mileage than cars with automatics. They tend to weigh less, which allows the engine to burn less fuel. They also have more gears (though, that’s changing), which allows the engine to operate within an RPM range that’s more efficient. That said, the disparity between the 2 types of transmissions is narrowing. Some newer makes and models with auto transmissions are now coming with 6 gears.
Maintenance And Repairs
If you’re driving (or, planning to drive) a stick shift, you’ll need to have the clutch replaced periodically. If you’re an aggressive driver, you may need to replace the clutch every 40,000 miles. Because the labor and parts required to do the job can cost up to $1,000, it can turn into a sizable investment. Besides the clutch, you’ll need to change the fluid every so often (same with automatics). If you’re driving an auto transmission, you probably won’t need to have maintenance or repairs performed for several years (aside from changing the fluid, of course). That said, when there is a problem, count on it being expensive to fix.
Driving Performance
As noted above, stick shift was once the favored choice among muscle car owners. The reason was because the automatics at the time didn’t shift efficiently. Sometimes, there would even be a short lull as the gears changed. By contrast, a stick shift driver who knew how to time the gear shifts perfectly could practically launch his vehicle like a rocket and pick up speed quickly. But, just like the number of gears (and resulting fuel efficiency), the performance of auto transmissions is now matching manual cars. Shifting is controlled by computers, which eliminates sluggishness and helps drivers maximize performance.
Comfort And Convenience
Some drivers love driving stick shift. Personally, I prefer automatic. It’s more convenient. Not only does the added flexibility leave my hands free, but driving on city streets (with a traffic light every 50 yards) is lower-maintenance. Admittedly, this is a matter of personal preference, so you might feel differently. In any case, it’s definitely worth noting.
So, which type of transmission should you choose? Think about your driving habits and what’s important to you (performance versus convenience, etc.). Consider the reasons why each type appeals to you. Finally, remember that you’ll be living with your decision for years. Choose wisely.
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