Why do most people prefer to drive stick shift cars rather than automatic cars? Are stick shifts better?

Question

If so, why?

Answer 1

I thought most people prefer automatics. But sticks are more fun and keep you busy.

Answer 2

a standard shift transmission allows you more control over what the car is doing. a stick shift car is better from a performance, fuel economy, and most importantly FUN standpoint. there are also far less parts involved, which makes for less to go wrong. granted the learning curve for a stick car is slightly longer (expect to have it pretty much licked in a week) the payoff is well worth it.

if that's your thing, you know- some people enjoy driving a car, and will opt for the stick. some people view a car as a means of getting from point A to point B, and will more than likely choose an automatic.

also, when purchasing a new car, an automatic transmission is on average an $800 to $1000 option.

personally, i plan to never own an auto trans car again. there are some things in life i like, and shifting is one of them.

Answer 3

Well, for several reasons.

1) You can get better fuel mileage with a stick, if you know what your doing. Just by accelerating slowly, clutching it on the hills, and shifting low, you can save alot of cash.

2) Some people learned on a stick, and they just stick with it (Bad pun intended)

3) I think it is more fun to drive a stick. Nothing like slammin' those gears and pressin' that clutch to get the blood pumpin'

4) Automatic Transmissions used to be REALLY Unreliable. They've gotten alot better, but they can still break, and some people are just more comfortable with the stick. If you break a manual tranny, it's pretty much always YOUR fault. So it's preventable.

5) Automatic Transmissions uused to be extras on most cars, and therefor more expensive. Some people are just Cheap.


However, many people like to drive automatics, and never even learn to drive a stick. All a matter of preference really.


Hope I helped.

Answer 4

It really depends upon what kind of driving you do. Each transmission is better at different types of things for different people. When driving a little sporty car, you can drive a stick and burn rubber, it's fun, if you are good, quick off the start, etc. Also, a stick is better when pulling heavy loads with a truck when in hilly areas, etc. If you are just a town driver going back and forth to work, an automatic transmission requires a lot less attention from you, the driver.

Answer 5

In the US, most people prefer automatics. Personally, I prefer a stick. I think driving a stick makes you a better driver because you have to pay more attention to your car and what you're doing with it. In 29 years of driving I've never owned a vehicle with an automatic transmission, and I haven't had an accident in 28 years, plus I haven't gotten a ticket since 1987. I'm not very smart, but driving a stick makes me pay attention.

Answer 6

Depends on your "Most people."

Learn to drive a stick well, and tell me in a month if you don't enjoy it more than an automatic.

I've always driven manual cars, normally with modded / weighted shifters, clutches, etc.

However, even though I love shifting, I also love the CVT in the new Nissan Maxima for 2007, maybe even more than 5spd. Its like having the perfect gear for any situation, and there's no delay. Go take a test drive and tell me you don't agree.

To answer the "better" part: Manual shifting cars have less power loss between the motor and the wheels, as well as a better contorl over the torque your applying to the wheels.

Answer 7

I drive an automatic simply because of the wife and resale value of the car.

My personal choice is a 5 speed stick. You get faster acceleration and better gas mileage. Besides it is a lot more fun to drive.

Answer 8

Because you are more mindful of what your doing and it is more fun. Also, it's old school and more in tune of car driving is all about. One of the things I can't stand is someone dropping $40-50 thousand dollars on a Corvette or other "All American Muscle Car" and getting it in an automatic. If you want an automatic, buy a Malibu.

Answer 9

I've had both. I like driving a stick shift, because I feel more in control of the vehicle, and it's kind of fun.

Answer 10

They are faster and funny to drive than automatic. I learnt with stick so I don't mind driving it. When I drive my wife's auto I am still looking for the clutch.