Manual cars offer more control for drivers, though they take a lot more concentration to drive. Automatic cars are a bit more expensive but offer a simple, more relaxed driving experience.
If you’ve driven a manual transmission as well as an automatic transmission car, you know they each have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. However, if you haven’t driven both types, it may be hard to know which one is best for you.
There are a few things you should consider before you choose which one to buy. Car insurance
broker and comparison shopping app Jerry
has compiled several factors to consider when choosing to buy a manual or automatic car. The cost difference between manual and transmission
A car with a manual transmission costs less than a car with an automatic one. Typically, the cost difference is about $1,000. Depending on how you plan on paying for the car, the difference can make a big impact on your pocketbook.
Maintenance costs
are usually lower with manual transmissions because they require less upkeep. Add these considerations up and the cost difference becomes significant, both in the short and long term.This means that if you're on a budget, buying a used manual transmission car could end up saving you a large sum of money.
Your daily commute should influence your decision
If you live in a big city with a lot of stop-and-go traffic during commuting hours, you may grow weary of a manual transmission. Constantly shifting gears for long periods of time several days a week takes a toll on your legs.
Some people have even been known to have larger thigh and calf muscles in their left leg from all the shifting and depressing of the clutch during their commute.
A long commute with lots of traffic usually steers individuals towards a car with an automatic transmission because it's easier to drive. Buying a manual car might not be worth it if you have to stop a lot on your daily commute.
Automatic transmissions are more convenient, manual has more control and power
Automatic transmissions are designed to take the guesswork out of driving, as they change gears for you. However, if you are looking for more control and immediate power, you might enjoy a manual transmission instead.
With a manual transmission, you can shift gears at your leisure and give your car a power boost when it's needed. You can also control your car better in adverse weather conditions.
In contrast, cars with an automatic transmission are easier to handle going uphill, with little danger of sliding backwards as the gears shift.
Driving a manual requires focus and concentration
Driving a car with a manual transmission requires you to focus more on your driving, concentrating on the process of shifting gears.
For example, as your right arm shifts the gear, you have to have your left foot press the clutch and, depending on what you are doing, your right foot has to press on the gas or brake. This can be a tricky process, and it could make driving more stressful for you.
It takes a lot of practice to learn how to drive a car with a manual transmission. But it also takes practice to switch from a manual to automatic transmission. People have been known to push an invisible "clutch" when making the transmission. It might be a good idea to just stick with the transmission you already know.
Manuals get better fuel economy
If driven correctly, a car with a manual transmission will get better fuel economy. While the difference in fuel economy between automatic and manual transmissions isn't as great as it used to be, it's still there. However, if you like to drive fast or live in an area with lots of hills, you may not get any cost savings.
If you drive a sports car, you probably won’t save any money as they use more fuel to run. But then again, if you are driving a sports car, you probably aren’t too concerned about saving money on gas
. When it comes to choosing between a car with automatic or manual transmission, it really comes down to personal preference. While you can save money and have more control with a manual transmission, an automatic car can be easier to drive and make your commute less stressful.
Also, it is becoming harder to find manual transmissions in new cars as they have lost popularity, so they may not be an option if you want a specific car.
A lot of thought has to go into choosing the right car. Whether you’re deciding between different transmissions, types of vehicles, price points, or one of many other factors, it’s worth it to take the time to test out as many cars as possible so you’re happy with your choice.
FAQ
Is buying a manual car worth it?
If you already know how to drive a manual, buying a manual car is absolutely worth it. You could end up with better fuel economy, and the car itself will be cheaper, too. However, it may not be worth it if your commute involves a lot of starts and stops.
And if you don't know how to drive a manual, you may have some difficulties learning how.
Is manual or automatic transmission better?
Manual and automatic transmissions both have their pros and cons, one isn't necessarily 'better' than the other. Automatic transmissions are good for people who don't want to have to deal with a lot of extra steps while driving and want a more convenient experience, while those who want more control over their vehicle and don't mind taking the extra steps might prefer a manual.
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