The car transmission transfers power that the engine generates, to its drive wheels. If that doesn’t work, you’re not going anywhere. The engine might start and idle, as well as rev correctly, however, without a transmission, your car won’t move at all. There are two basic transmission types- manual and automatic. Here is some more information about them and the differences between these systems.
Manual or Automatic Car Transmission?
Before buying a vehicle, you need to know what type of car and transmission will suit you best- automatic or manual. To decide which car to purchase, you first need to understand the differences between these two types of transmissions.
- The Working
The most notable difference between these two transmissions is that in a manual transmission, the driver has to use a clutch while changing gears. However, in a car that has an automatic transmission, the gears are adjusted automatically based on the speed of the engine speed. It’s the primary reason why the latter is called automatic while the other manual.
- Fuel Consumption
A manual car transmission uses lesser fuel than one with automatic transmission. This is a very crucial aspect to keep in view when making a car purchase decision. Over time, an automatic car will cost more as it will consume more fuel. If you drive a vehicle with a manual transmission, you will end up spending less in the long term.
- The Control Aspect
A manual transmission gives you greater control of the vehicle. However, it isn’t always convenient to drive a car with this type of system. While you have lesser control over a car with automatic transmission, it’s more convenient and comfortable. When you drive a manual car, you need to be more focused on driving, and there needs to be perfect coordination and movement of both your hands and feet. In an automatic transmission, your left leg is left free.
- Car Cost
There is a price difference in automatic and manual cars. The latter is cheaper than the same vehicles that have an automated system. You also have to spend more on the maintenance of automatic cars because fixing parts like their gearbox are more expensive when compared to manual car transmission components.
- Gear Placement
The gear of a manual transmission car is situated in the floor. In an automatic transmission, the gear is located either in the steering or floor. A manual car’s gear has a handle that can be shifted in six directions (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th as well as reverse gear). In an automatic transmission, the first five gears are included in the ‘Drive’ gear; it has ‘P’ for parking and ‘R’ for reverse as well two other gears- ‘1’ & ‘2’ to restrict switching of gears in the system, to the 1st & 2nd level respectively.
Make a Prudent Car Transmission Choice
On average, manual transmission cars are far more efficient than their automatic counterparts, which, however, are more popular today. While its essential to be aware of the significant differences between automatic and manual transmission, ultimately, your purchase decision will likely come down to personal preference.
No matter which one you opt for, the vehicle will take you where you need to go. But you’d need to practice a little more when you have a manual car. Knowing how to drive a manual car transmissionis a skill that can prove to be handy in emergencies.
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