Manual Transmission going the way of the Dodo....

[07TLX]

Sad to see the increase of automatic transmissions...

I don't have any issues with "paddle shifters" but there is something about changing gears that feels wonderful..

http://mindovermotor.com/2011/08/02/the-clutch-pedal’s-decline/

 

[webby]

can't hit like enough on that ^^^

I've driven a few cars on test drives with paddle shifters. It's ok, but it's not anywhere near as fun

 

[KennyGS]

I cannot believe MT's will ever become completely unavailable. Regardless of the benefits of an AT, and there are many, the experience of control and interaction while driving is priceless to me.

 

[webby]

but you have to admit, there are more and more companies ditching the manual. Look at the number of performance/supercars that are ONLY available as an auto

 

[KennyGS]

Yes, and I would never want to own one of them because of that reason alone.

IMO, part of owning a performance car must be an understanding that to drive it near it's potential actually requires skill. The ability of a car to operate at high levels should not depend on a computer. If a driver mis-shifts, or hits a turn a little too hot with their sports car, then they must suffer the consequences.

BTW, I always shut off the traction control on the vette everytime I drive it on dry roads. It is much more enjoyable that way.

It is a different story for professional drivers, since they are making their living behind the wheel.

 

[webby]

 

[Dar-Dar]

It's weird how they are saying this. Most of the cars driven in the Philippines are stick shift.

 

[07TLX]

I am with both Webby and Ken. If I want a performance car I want to have a 5 or 6 speed not some computer that shifts for me or even restricts me to how I can drive.... Thats one of my gripes with BMW's you drive there paddle shifters to a certain point but wouldn't like you if you try to downshift from 4th to 3rd in a higher gear...

 

[webby]

I know someone who got a 2010 m3, and they said I could drive it. I was so excited until I found out it was actually an auto.

 

[07TLX]

I used to do BMW's Drive for the Cure and have driven a few of them, and every time I would switch up to use the paddles and the feeling of stopping after going thru the gears without putting a clutch down was strange.... Like I said I would be in 4th or 3rd and want to go to 3rd or 2nd and I am at 3K rpms and it would shift down for a nanosecond and then the computer would shift it back to 3rd or 4th

 

[dentrecords]

I won't buy an automatic, or a "manual" that's operated by paddle shifters. Meh.