Manual versus Automatic Transmission

Paper Summary:

This paper describes, compares and contrasts manual and automatic transmissions, defending the thesis that manuals are better than automatics in several aspects including efficiency, expense and pleasure. The paper argues that manual transmission is better than automatic because it is more pleasant to drive, giving one full control of the vehicle (about 62% of the sports cars sold in the U.S. are manual), it is more efficient and safe because it requires the driver's full attention and is cheaper because it requires less gas.

From the Paper:

"Ever since the automotive revolution began, there has been a battle between manual and automatic transmissions. Many differences can be pointed out, and when the two are objectively compared, one can easily see that manuals are superior to automatics. One of the strongest impressions that foreigners get when they first visit the USA is the fact that so many Americans prefer to drive automobiles with automatic instead of manual transmissions. In Europe, where the average cost of gas is $4 per gallon, most people, almost without exception, drive manuals because automatics need more fuel. Driving a manual there is an axiom no one questions it, and everyone believes it is better. However, blind belief is not right. That is why a few arguments will be stated in defense of manual transmissions. Although cars with automatic transmissions may appear appealing to the customers, the truth is that manually operated automobiles are superior. Automatic cars are so easy to operate that they deprive the driver of the delight of feeling in control of the car. That ease also allows the driver to have a quick cup of coffee or a nice talk on his or her cellular phone while driving. In addition, when a driver has only one pedal and the steering wheel to worry about, he or she is more apt to fall asleep. These distractions make them dangerous on the road."

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