When it comes to driving, there has long been debate about whether automatic or manual transmission is better. Should you ditch the familiar gear stick, sacrificing having more control over your car for an easier ride? Perhaps you prefer the convenience of automatic gear changes in urban settings, where you're starting and stopping more?
Today, manual cars account for 70% of the 31.7 million vehicles on UK roads. Each type of vehicle has its own benefits and drawbacks. It all comes down to personal choice. Before buying your next car, read our handy guide to the pros and cons of automatic vs manual cars.
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Should I buy an automatic car?
Beginning with the basics, a manual car has a gearbox that you operate yourself with the clutch pedal and gear stick.
An automatic car is easier to drive, as the gears are changed automatically for you. The car knows when to change gear in relation to how fast you're going. There's no need for a clutch pedal and some people prefer driving this way. You can even take your driving test in an automatic car, although you won't be permitted to drive a manual car if you pass.
In 2021, the percentage of all UK driving tests taken in an automatic car rose to 42%. Motoring organisations say the number is increasing. They suggest this could be a result of the ban on the sale of new combustion engine cars in 2030, which will lead to petrol and diesel vehicles being phased out, as the new electric models don't require a clutch.
All you have to worry about when driving an automatic is going forwards, backwards and stopping. This makes it much easier to drive, which some motorists prefer. You don't need to think about controlling the clutch - just select "D" for drive or "R" for reverse until you need to park.
For a smoother ride, the automatic gearbox provides a seamless transition when changing gear, so there's no stuttering when braking, or slowing to take corners. In rush hour traffic, when you're continually stopping and starting, this can be a great advantage, as you're free to concentrate on navigating bumper-to-bumper traffic and tricky junctions.
However, automatic cars have disadvantages too. In general, they are more expensive to buy than manual vehicles on both the new and pre-owned markets. If you're on a budget, it is usually cheaper to pick up a manual car.
Some motorists often complain of finding it "boring" driving an automatic car. They feel it takes the fun out of driving. They enjoy having more control over their car and say changing gear is a big part of the overall driving experience.
Should I buy a manual car?
Drivers of manual cars enjoy greater control, as they choose which gear to use. This can be useful in winter, when ice, snow or rain may require quick reflexes and greater control.
Some drivers find automatics slower and more cumbersome than manual cars. Traditionally, a manual gearbox gets the power to your wheels quicker, although some newer automatics are being fitted with a dual-clutch type of technology to speed this up.
Manual cars also tend to be cheaper to buy and maintain, as their design is less complex than automatics. However, while repairs, in general, are usually cheaper, one of the biggest costs is if the clutch wears out. It can be so expensive in older pre-owned cars; it may not even be cost-effective to repair. For example, if you're driving a ten-year-old car and the clutch costs £800 to replace, you may end up having to scrap the car instead.
Driving a manual means you need to take one hand off the steering wheel to operate the gear stick. With an automatic car, you can always keep both hands on the wheel, enabling the driver to concentrate on the road ahead. In addition, because your left leg is always working the clutch, this can be uncomfortable, especially on a long journey or in congested areas, when it can cause muscular aches.
At the end of the day, it's all down to the individual driver's personal taste and whether you feel happier in an automatic or a manual car. If you're not sure, you can always take your wheels for a test drive and see how you feel.
