Automatic gearbox

[TonyT]

I’ve had both over the years and don’t have a preference. If you spend a lot of time in cities, then automatics make life a lot easier. But if you’re constantly going up and down hills then it has to be a manual. Personally, I think cars are a pain in the @rse and I don’t enjoy driving, but in the modern age, if you don’t have access to one then you’re at a serious disadvantage. Therefore driving is a necessary skill, all aspects of which should be taught including the ability to drive manual and automatics.

 

[starseeker]

Lets not forget this is all about learner drivers ,once they pass their test i wonder how many auto Corsa's etc are around ,on the whole the only cars available which are affordable are the small ,manual run arounds .

 

[Leon103]

Always used a manual. Have driven an auto but just couldn't get used to it.

 

[Beermonster66]

I drove manuals until 10 years ago. Auto ever since with the double clutch type far and away the best. I now drive an electric Mini and it doesn't even have a gearbox! Worst manual I ever drove was a Jag X- type. That was like stirring a bucket of bricks when it was cold.

 

[Griff097]

Hated Autos years ago, but got used to modern ones, auto in the camper, superb relaxing drive, manual in the van and car, puddles the head a bit jumping between camper and van on the same chassis, but I would pitch auto all day for relaxation, but try finding a second hand auto van Lol

 

[Graz]

Being able to drive a manual is still a useful skill to have but I can well see it dying out in future.

For a sporty drive I'd still enjoy a manual though I don't have anything sporty at the moment. It gives you a lot more control going into corners and so on.

However my last two main cars have been autos and I'm a complete convert. The roads are so congested these days and you spend so much time in stop / start traffic it's just so much more pleasant with an auto on a long drive. We also have a caravan for holidays and I just don't think I'd ever fancy towing that with a manual. We still have a runaround car which is a manual so I can maintain my skills with that.

 

[prog99]

Don't own one but have rented them as they are quite often the cheaper option for some reason. Absolutely thrashed a clio round the alps and it was great with the constant up and down gears you need on the alpine roads. Also had a 4x4 auto in norway which again was great in the snowy conditions we had.
Would happily have an auto if one was available.