To automatic, or not to automatic...
Pro
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 602
Likes: 0
From: Walnut CA
Here's my $.02:
The A4 is definitely faster for most people going in a straight line. A visit to our local dragstrip on bracket racing night bears this out. A modern automatic shifts consistently right at the redline, and you see few late model manual shift cars there anymore.
That said, I prefer the manual.
What would you think of a Ferrari with a regular automatic? Not a real paddle shifter, but a A4 type of automatic.
What would you think of a Miata with an automatic?
Many would think that there is something not totally right with such a "sports car".
The manual shift gives you a much greater feeling of control. I like knowing that the gear I select will not change until I change it. For instance, on a "spirited" drive in the twisties in the mountains, I do not like the thought that the car might shift at a time when it is not expected, and get things "out of balance."
The A4 is definitely faster for most people going in a straight line. A visit to our local dragstrip on bracket racing night bears this out. A modern automatic shifts consistently right at the redline, and you see few late model manual shift cars there anymore.
That said, I prefer the manual.
What would you think of a Ferrari with a regular automatic? Not a real paddle shifter, but a A4 type of automatic.
What would you think of a Miata with an automatic?
Many would think that there is something not totally right with such a "sports car".
The manual shift gives you a much greater feeling of control. I like knowing that the gear I select will not change until I change it. For instance, on a "spirited" drive in the twisties in the mountains, I do not like the thought that the car might shift at a time when it is not expected, and get things "out of balance."
Burning Brakes
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 793
Likes: 0
From: IN
Cruise-In VII Veteran
Originally Posted by EnglandGreen
Manual Vettes have slightly more power, generally lower rear gears and slightly higher top speed vs. Auto tranny cars.
I have an Auto and I love it because I like to cruise slow much more than slide my car sideways at high speed on twisty roads (but only because I don't possess the "intestinal fortitude" to drive it hard!!!!)
It's a very personal choice either way.
Good luck.
I have an Auto and I love it because I like to cruise slow much more than slide my car sideways at high speed on twisty roads (but only because I don't possess the "intestinal fortitude" to drive it hard!!!!)
It's a very personal choice either way.
Good luck.
