Why Do I Prefer Stick Shift Cars: A Personal Journey and Opinion

While many people find automatic transmissions easier and more convenient, I, personally, have a deep admiration for manual gearboxes, also known as stick shifts. This article explores the reasons behind my preference for these systems and discusses the advantages and disadvantages compared to automatic transmissions.

Overview of Manual versus Automatic Transmissions

To be fair, it is indeed easier to learn to drive an automatic car compared to a manual one. You don’t have to constantly shift gears or remember the gear position, which can be a challenge for some. In busy city traffic, letting the car handle the shifting can be much more comfortable, and it means your one leg doesn’t have to remain in constant motion.

My Journey with Stick Shift Cars

I first learned to drive in a Volkswagen Beetle with a manual gearbox, a choice that was perfect for a small vehicle and a beginner driver. To this day, I still own that beloved VW Beetle, along with a few others that also feature manual transmission. My garage is filled with cars of different makes and models, all equipped with manual gearboxes. Currently, I own an Isuzu D-max pickup truck, commonly referred to as a Ute in Australia, with a 3-liter diesel engine and a 5-speed manual gearbox. I also have the pleasure of driving larger trucks with as many as 13 and 18-speed manual gearboxes. Despite these manual gearboxes, I have, on occasion, driven cars with automatic transmissions, and I have to say that for city driving, an automatic can make a significant difference.

Balancing Stick Shifter and Automatic Pleasure

While I love the thrill of driving a manual car, there are undoubtedly situations where an automatic transmission is more advantageous. For instance, in stop-and-go city traffic, an automatic transmission can simplify the driving experience. Additionally, in hilly terrain, an automatic transmission eliminates the need to guess which gear to use when climbing. The continuity of the climb without the risk of changing gears mid-climb ensures a smoother ride, which is especially important when attempting to maintain engine braking.

The Evolution of Automatic Gearboxes

In modern vehicles, it's not uncommon to find a type of automatic gearbox called an ATM, or automatic transmission manual. These systems essentially act like manual transmissions but automatically change gears based on road speed, throttle position, and engine speed. While these are indeed easier to drive in city settings, they offer little to no difference when traveling on highways, where you can still engage the manual mode if you wish.

Conclusion

The preference between automatic and manual transmissions can be highly subjective. I believe that manual gearboxes offer unique driving experiences and a level of control that is hard to replicate in an automatic vehicle. However, I also recognize that automatic transmissions can provide a more comfortable and convenient drive in certain situations. Whether you're in the USA, where there is a general love for automatic vehicles, or in other countries where manual gearboxes remain popular, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference, driving conditions, and the specific circumstances of your commute.