Why are high-end performance cars only available with manual transmission?

Answer 1

The Ferrari Enzo doesn't

I can think of many that don't

Answer 2

1st of all, not all high end performance cars come with only manual transmission, many come with either an automatic option, or the manumatic mode, which is like a manual without the clutch, or the best of them all, the DSG dual clutch transmission.

But the reason why most of the ones you see have the manual transmission is because it is proven that the same two cars, 1 with auto, and 1 with manual, the manual will slightly outperform the automatic.
Also, when you are racing, in my opinion, the manual transmission gives you a lot better feel of the car, and makes me feel more in control.
hope this insight helps!

Answer 3

If you think about it high performance front wheel drive cars have very "iffy" automatic transmissions. There's no room to increase the physical size or add more over-driven gears. They tend to be weaker in construction than standard transmissions.

On the other hand, standard transmissions may be built with infinite gear ratios and gear splits. High performance engines create more torque and horsepower. The engineers know the torque and power curve of the motor so they can choose the gear ratio form first gear to 5th. or 6th. over-driven gears to save gasoline and allow you to come storming off the line in low gear.

If you're interested to see the inside of various *Tremec *Transmissions hit the net with the above marked with a * you'll see a large chart with various transmission gear ratios available for specific applications.

Answer 4

Gee...Do you think it's because they're designed as "driver's cars".... I wonder....? Good luck!