Most Canadians prefer driving automatic transmission cars to manual, but is it that much better? Well, automatic is easier and more comfortable to use while manual transmission vehicles are less expensive and offer a more immersive driving experience. Just 9% of cars available to purchase in Canada today have a manual transmission, down from 35% in 1980. Here is a detailed comparison to help you decide which is right for you:
Automatic
Easier – It takes less time to learn how to change gears in an automatic transmission than in a manual car. There is no need to use your left foot to press an extra pedal or take the time to learn when to shift gears.
Less restrictive – Most people are told to keep both hands on the wheel as they drive, but this is not possible with a manual transmission at all times.
Better for changing terrain – Less experienced drivers may find it challenging to navigate steep inclines with a manual transmission as the gears do not automatically shift. An automatic transmission can operate efficiently no matter how steep a hill is.
No stalling – There is no need to worry about stalling your vehicle at a traffic light with an automatic transmission. Stalling is likely for new drivers of manual transmission cars if they are not familiar with the gears yet.
Less rush hour troubles – More work goes into starting, accelerating, decelerating, and stopping manual transmissions. All of this is made especially cumbersome during rush hour when traffic is stop and go. Drivers can move through heavy traffic easily with an automatic transmission with only needing to push a single pedal.
Manual
Less expensive – A manual transmission will cost you thousands less than an automatic of the same model making it the budget-friendly choice.
Cheaper maintenance – More machinery goes into an automatic transmission, which can end up costing more to maintain. Manual transmission cars require little upkeep and repairs are significantly less costly. The only thing to consider is that an automatic does not have a clutch and if that breaks down in your manual car, then you would be in trouble.
Fuel efficiency – Manual transmission cars have always been considered more fuel efficient than automatic, but with advances in technology, automatic cars are catching up. Manual transmissions have been able to save drivers between 5 to 15% on fuel costs, though.
Theft – Because fewer people know how to operate a manual transmission vehicle, it is less likely to be the target of theft. Merely having a manual transmission car is a theft deterrent.
Control – Manual transmissions give drivers more control of which gear to choose. An automatic transmission car is designed to select the best gear based on road conditions, but it can pick a gear that is too high wasting engine power. Manual drivers have the option to intentionally select a lower gear to add a boost of power if they would like.
Automatic transmission vehicles may be the more practical choice as they are easier to operate and manuals get phased out of the market. But, many drivers consider manual transmission vehicles more fun to drive and enjoy the money they save from owning one. Ultimately, it is up to you which you choose to get you from point A to point B. If you have any questions, please call us or visit our location. For more information about Alberta Drive-Line visit our website.