Pros of a Manual Transmissions
The pros of choosing a manual transmission over an automatic convince many drivers that manuals are easier and less expensive to own.
Initial Cost:
On average, the initial cost of purchasing a car with a manual transmission is less than that associated with automatics. Car shoppers on a budget who are able to drive a manual may be better off saving this small amount of money.
Driving Control:
Those experienced with stick-shifts will have greater control over vehicles with manual transmissions, especially in harsh weather conditions. The ability to control the speed with which the gears shift increases response time and traction on roads slick with rain, ice, or snow.
Maintenance Costs:
Even though the clutch on a manual transmission may cause a car to break down sooner than an automatic, the cost of clutch replacement and routine maintenance make manual transmissions less expensive to keep running. Transmission fluid needs to be changed less frequently with a manual transmission versus an automatic due to the controlled manner with which the gears are shifted and less strain is placed on the brake pads.
Cons of Manual Transmissions
While the advantages of choosing a manual transmission over an automatic deal primarily with the cost and safety of the vehicle, the cons center entirely on your ability to operate a stick shift.
Learning to Drive:
The average person has a harder time learning to drive with a manual transmission versus an automatic. It is impossible to drive a car that has a manual transmission without being taught how to properly shift between gears. Plus, most professional driving schools teach exclusively on automatic cars.
Constant Shifting:
Some drivers find the constant shifting and manipulation of the clutch pedal a significant con to choosing a manual transmission over an automatic. Every time you need to start, stop, reverse, or otherwise change gears you need to do so yourself. Automatic transmissions take over the more tedious shifting, allowing the driver more convenience.
The pros and cons of a manual transmission compared against an automatic clearly depict the benefits of each. Manual transmissions are less expensive and provide increased control, while automatics are easier to learn and simpler to drive.
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