Why do people prefer manual cars? (2024)

FAQs

Why do people prefer manual cars? ›

Manual transmission cars require very little maintenance, and generally maintenance and repairs end up being significantly less costly.

Manual car pros

The vehicle is more engaging for the driver. The driver has full control over gears and when to shift. It's usually less expensive than an automatic-equipped vehicle. The transmission often costs less to repair.

A manual always allows the driver to feel more connected to the car, more involved, and therefore offers up a far more satisfying driving experience.

There are many reasons why most high-performance cars only use manual transmissions. They accelerate quicker, perform better, and don't limit you as the driver. And when you are going that fast it's important to remain in control of the car.

The ride is bumpy, and shifting gears adds a layer of unpredictability from the passenger side where, as a passenger, you feel on edge for the majority of the ride. The entire experience is thrilling, titillating, but driving stick also feels inherently masculine, which may add to its appeal — for both men and women.

Pros: Lower purchase price. Many drivers like the feeling of being in control. Fuel efficient.

Easier to Maintain – With fewer moving parts, a stick shift has the advantage of being easy to maintain. Manual transmissions require less servicing to remain functional and don't need the same type of oil as an automatic transmission.

One of the biggest benefits of driving a manual car is more engagement with the driving experience. When you drive a manual transmission vehicle, you need to make more decisions about driving based on road conditions, speed, road incline, and more.

“It unlocks an entirely new world of driving,” says Fix, who likens the releasing of the clutch and the pushing of the gas pedal to a dance. “You get the control, the enjoyment and the freedom. It's a blast. I think it's the best way to drive.”

Manual transmissions have simpler and fewer parts than automatics do, which in theory should make them more reliable. With an experienced stickshift driver, that's probably the case. However, because manuals require more driver involvement, there's more opportunity for the driver to cause damage.

Is manual transmission good for daily driving? ›

Absolutely. If all you're doing is driving in traffic jams all the time, maybe don't get a manual if it bothers you. But don't use it as an excuse not to get a car that's otherwise excellent.

After steadily losing the battle against automatics for the past 70 years, manual transmission sales are on the rise. Well, sort of. Before driving enthusiasts rejoice, consider that the recovery is very trivial — about a percentage point — the victory is small, by all definitions.

Also, there's another unconscious car-gesture you can see in this little video: the waggle of the shifter to confirm the car is in neutral.

Only around 18% of American drivers can handle a manual transmission, according to U.S. News and World Report. You know: the clutch pedal and the stick shift—three on the tree, four on the floor or, I don't know, five to drive maybe. Different gears, manually engaged.

More Control: With a manual car, the driver has more control over the vehicle, as they can choose exactly when to shift gears and how much power to give the engine. 3. Lower Cost: Manual cars are often less expensive to purchase and maintain than automatic cars, as they have fewer parts and are easier to repair.

The truth is, sadly, no. It's easy to see why a lot of people believe that a stick shift helps a car launch off the line more quickly and accelerate better. Traditional automatic transmissions can sometimes feel sluggish, especially under heavy engine load.

Basically, automatic transmissions are easier to use and more comfortable for the driver, while manual transmission vehicles are less expensive and more involved. Of course, there are exceptions to any rule and the only way to be sure which one is right for you is to go for a test drive.

Only around 18% of American drivers can handle a manual transmission, according to U.S. News and World Report. You know: the clutch pedal and the stick shift—three on the tree, four on the floor or, I don't know, five to drive maybe. Different gears, manually engaged.