If you're an enthusiast, go ahead. But if you're concerned about fuel economy or resale value, maybe not.
Aug 10, 2023|3 min read
Ford
QuickTakes:
- Manual transmission impact on fuel economy
- Are manual transmission models cheaper?
- Manual transmission impact on resale value
Manual transmissions have a reputation for delivering superior performance and better gas mileage than automatic transmissions, but you wouldn't know that by looking at today's new-car market, where stick shifts are increasingly rare.
In this age of advanced automatics, are there still any benefits to seeking out a clutch pedal in a brand-new car or truck?
Manual Transmission Impact on Fuel Economy
For most of the 20th century, manual transmissions offered a clear gas mileage advantage over automatic transmissions. There were several reasons for this, ranging from technical (torque converter designs in automatics sapped power from the drivetrain) to practical (the driver of a manual could precisely match gear selection to traffic conditions and topography and could disengage the gearbox while idling).
The 21st century brought many advances in automatic transmission design that started to close the fuel efficiency gap. The number of gears available for automatics blossomed from four to six to eight to 10, enabling better gear selections by smarter computer controllers that had more sensor data to help inform their decisions. Automated dual-clutch transmissions eliminated torque converters entirely, while traditional automatics saw their converters dramatically improved. Finally, there was the advent of continuously variable automatics, which can alter their gear ratios to precisely balance efficiency and performance at all times.
All of this has swung the fuel-efficiency pendulum in favor of automatics when comparing the same model car.
Are Manual Transmission Models Still Cheaper to Buy?
The days when almost every vehicle's base trim came with a manual gearbox are over. There are very few manual transmission vehicles left on the market. In fact, just 1.7% of new vehicles sold in 2022 feature the technology, according to data analytics company J.D. Power.
Although a few economy-oriented choices remain, such as the Mazda 3, most manual-transmission vehicles on the market are specialty models catering to enthusiasts, such as the Ford Mustang and the Subaru BRZ, or the utility-focused Toyota Tacoma and Jeep Wrangler.
The Subaru BRZ is $1,500 cheaper with its manual gearbox, but models like the Mustang and the Mazda 3 require buyers to choose higher trim levels to select a manual option, further underscoring how clutch pedals now target niche car buyers.
Does a Manual Transmission Affect Resale Value?
In general, there are fewer drivers who know how to operate a manual transmission and even fewer who are likely to seek one out. It's here that the scarcity of this feature cuts both ways, making a manual car unappealing to the majority of buyers, even though it might be prized among a small subset of shoppers. This tends to lower the residual value of most manual-equipped models.
For instance, Kelley Blue Book reports that as of July 2023, a 2020 Honda Accord Sport with 36,000 miles is worth $22,420 if it has a manual transmission and $23,437 with an automatic transmission. The two models were priced exactly the same when new.
Written by humans.
Edited by humans.
This site is for educational purposes only. The third parties listed are not affiliated with Capital One and are solely responsible for their opinions, products and services. Capital One does not provide, endorse or guarantee any third-party product, service, information or recommendation listed above. The information presented in this article is believed to be accurate at the time of publication, but is subject to change. The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of the product. The material provided on this site is not intended to provide legal, investment, or financial advice or to indicate the availability or suitability of any Capital One product or service to your unique circ*mstances. For specific advice about your unique circ*mstances, you may wish to consult a qualified professional.
Benjamin Hunting
Benjamin Hunting is a writer and podcast host who contributes to a number of newspapers, automotive magazines, and online publications. More than a decade into his career, he enjoys keeping the shiny side up during track days and always has one too many classic vehicle projects partially disassembled in his garage at any given time. Remember, if it's not leaking, it's probably empty.
FAQs
If you do a lot city driving, an automatic may be easier to maneuver through stop and go traffic than a standard transmission. However, if performance and the driving experience matters to you, you might want to consider a manual. Another factor to keep in mind is if there'll be other people driving the vehicle.
Are manual cars a good investment? ›
Lower Purchase and Maintenance Costs
Manual cars typically have lower sticker prices than their automatic counterparts. This cost difference can be substantial, especially for first-time car buyers or those on a budget. Moreover, manual transmissions are generally cheaper to repair and maintain than automatics.
Is it better to buy a manual or automatic car? ›
Basically, automatic transmissions are easier to use and more comfortable for the driver, while manual transmission vehicles are less expensive and more involved. Of course, there are exceptions to any rule and the only way to be sure which one is right for you is to go for a test drive.
What is an advantage of having a car with a manual transmission? ›
Overall, driving a stick shift is more advantageous because of its better control. One can better control their speed and revs (engine revolutions per minute, RPM) due to the ability to change which gear the car is in manually. This is something that cannot be done in an automatic.
What is the life expectancy of a manual transmission? ›
How Long Does Your Transmission Last?
| Transmission Quick Facts |
|---|
| Transmission Lifespan Without Maintenance | 100,000 miles or less |
|---|
| Transmission Lifespan with Proper Maintenance | 300,000 miles or more |
| When to Change Automatic Transmission Fluid | Every 30,000 miles |
| When to Change Manual Transmission Fluid | Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles |
Manual transmissions require less servicing to remain functional and don't need the same type of oil as an automatic transmission. Cars with a stick-shift usually last longer than an automatic of the same make and model.
Is insurance higher for manual cars? ›
The cost of insuring your vehicle is comprised of several factors. Looking strictly at manual vs. automatic insurance coverage, a manual vehicle may be cheaper due to its lower repair costs, but the difference between auto insurance premiums is likely insignificant.
Do I really want a manual car? ›
If you like being immersed in the drive and having more control over your car, a manual transmission might be the right fit for you. If you're looking for an easier car to drive, an automatic transmission may be a better fit. Learn more about car insurance policies.
Do people buy manual cars anymore? ›
Their popularity has diminished due to a lack of demand, as well as the fact that many commuters prefer automatic autos to manually shifting gears when caught in traffic. However, there is still a tiny market for a stick shift. Learning to drive a stick shift car is enjoyable, but it takes patience and time.
Why do people prefer manual over automatic? ›
Apart from being more involved in the driving experience, you also have more control over the vehicle. Further, manual cars are less expensive for repair and maintenance. They're also more likely to be fuel efficient than many automatic vehicles.
CARS.COM — Manual transmissions are usually cheaper to maintain and repair than automatics because the latter are far more complex and have more parts and functions that can fail, but it may depend on your driving style.
Will manual cars go up in value? ›
It's here that the scarcity of this feature cuts both ways, making a manual car unappealing to the majority of buyers, even though it might be prized among a small subset of shoppers. This tends to lower the residual value of most manual-equipped models.
What are the disadvantages of a manual transmission? ›
Cons of a Manual Transmission Cars
Of course, there are few disadvantages to driving a stick shift, as well. Learning how to operate one comes with a pretty steep learning curve. Newcomers can expect to jerk, buck, stall and miss gear changes as they figure out the clutch, timing and other basics.
Is driving a manual car attractive? ›
You're involved in every decision and control every outcome. Like a record player, the stick shift demands that you remain involved throughout the drive,” he says. And for women, a man physically maneuvering a vehicle might sound off similarly ingrained notions of “manliness” and “ruggedness,” explains Kibbe.
What percent of people can drive manually? ›
Only around 18% of American drivers can handle a manual transmission, according to U.S. News and World Report. You know: the clutch pedal and the stick shift—three on the tree, four on the floor or, I don't know, five to drive maybe. Different gears, manually engaged.
What are the two most common causes of manual transmission failure? ›
The most common reasons a manual transmission failed are lack of lubrication, incorrect lubrication and improper or no clutch release.
What damages manual transmissions? ›
High fluid temperatures can be detrimental to your transmission. About 90% of transmission failures are related to extreme heat. Transmission fluid that is low, dirty, or burnt can contribute to the elevated temperatures within your transmission as well as a hot climate, and heavy towing.
Which is safer manual or automatic transmission? ›
In simple terms, neither manual nor automatic cars are definitively safer overall. Safety depends on factors like the driver's skill, road conditions, and the car's design but Automatic cars are considered a bit safer because they let drivers concentrate more on the road without the extra task of shifting gears.
Ford