The Evolution of Automatic Transmissions: What Makes Modern Gearboxes Horrible?

Automatic transmissions have come a long way and have made significant advancements in recent years. In fact, they have consistently outperformed many manually shifted counterparts. Yet, there are still debates and myths surrounding their performance and capabilities. In this article, we will explore the truth about automatic transmissions and debunk some common misconceptions.

Ironing Out the Myths: Automatic Transmissions Are Engineering Marvels

Many older automatic transmissions, like the C4, C6, Turbo 400, Turbo 350, and Torqueflights, have been praised for their performance. These transmissions have consistently delivered neck-snapping acceleration and superior handling, often surpassing the capabilities of manual transmissions. However, there is a persistent rumor that these older automatics are inherently bad. Let's set the record straight: if these older automatics didn't perform, their engineering wouldn't have been recognized for its brilliance.

The truth is, any automatic transmission that works as intended is a marvel of automotive technology. They are designed to provide smooth, efficient, and reliable performance. Newer models, such as those found in cars made in the last 20 years, often fall short of this standard. Instead of truly automatic transmissions, these cars feature automated, robotized, or computerized manual gearboxes with trade names like CVT, DSG, and DCT. These are often the ones that are considered to be the worst, although they are marketed as the latest in transmission technology.

Hydraulic Marvels vs. Automated Nonsense

Automatic transmissions from the past, like those in cars made 20 years ago, are true hydraulic transmissions. These systems function with liquid pressure, ensuring smooth and consistent shifts without the need for the driver to manually intervene. In contrast, modern automated transmissions are often controlled by computers and have far fewer moving parts. While these newer systems aim to provide a more seamless driving experience, they often fall short in terms of performance and reliability.

One of the most common complaints about modern automatic transmissions is their poor performance during slow-speed maneuvers. Dry plate clutch packs, which are often used in these automated manual gearboxes, can struggle with slow-speed performance, leading to a jerky and unsmooth driving experience. This is particularly evident in vehicles from manufacturers like Volkswagen (VW), Ford, and the offerings from Fiat/PSA Group. These cars often struggle with slow-speed performance, a far cry from the smooth operation of a fully hydraulic transmission system.

Another important question is whether Mercedes-Benz (MB) has ever developed a transmission that falls into this category. The answer is a resounding no. Mercedes-Benz has always been at the forefront of transmission technology, developing robust and reliable systems that have stood the test of time. Their transmissions are designed to provide unparalleled performance and smoothness, and there is no evidence to suggest that they have pursued an evolutionary dead end in transmission technology.

Conclusion

While advancements in transmission technology continue, it is crucial to recognize the historical and engineering achievements of older automatic transmissions. Modern automated gearboxes, despite their promises of convenience and advanced technology, often fail to match the performance and reliability of their hydraulic predecessors. It's important to base our judgments on actual driving experience and performance rather than myths and misconceptions.