do manual cars have a transmission

[McDaniela]

Yes, manual transmission cars absolutely have a transmission; in fact, the term "manual" specifically refers to the type of transmission they use. It's called a manual transmission because the driver manually selects the gears using a gear shifter and a clutch pedal. This system is a complex mechanical assembly of gears, shafts, and synchronizers that directly transfers power from the engine to the wheels at a ratio chosen by the driver.

The core components include the clutch, which disconnects the engine from the transmission to allow gear changes, the gear selector, which engages different gear sets, and the flywheel. When you press the clutch pedal, you disengage the clutch, interrupting power flow so you can move the shifter. Releasing the pedal re-engages the clutch, sending power through the selected gear.

Compared to modern automatic transmissions, manuals are generally simpler in design. This often translates to lower purchase prices, reduced repair costs, and potentially better fuel efficiency in some models, though this gap has narrowed. The primary appeal for enthusiasts is the engaging, connected driving experience and the direct control it offers over the car's performance.

Here's a brief comparison of key characteristics:

Feature	Manual Transmission	Automatic Transmission
Driver Control	High; driver selects all gears	Low; computer selects gears
Learning Curve	Steeper; requires coordination	Easier; essentially point-and-go
Typical Cost	Lower initial cost & repair bills	Higher initial cost & complexity
Fuel Economy (Historically)	Often more efficient	Now often comparable or better
Theft Deterrent	Considered a minor deterrent	N/A
Common Repairs	Clutch replacement	Solenoid packs, torque converter

While their market share has declined significantly in the US, manual transmissions are still prized for their driving engagement and mechanical simplicity.

[VanAlivia]

Yeah, they do. It’s the whole point! "Manual" means you’re the one changing the gears with the stick shift and the clutch pedal. The transmission is the box full of gears that makes that possible. Automatics do the shifting for you, but with a manual, you’re in charge. It’s more work, but it feels more like you’re actually driving the car, not just steering it.

[LeDiana]

From a mechanical standpoint, yes, a manual car's transmission is its defining component. My interest is in the engineering: it's a purely mechanical linkage without the complex hydraulics and computers of an automatic. The driver acts as the transmission's control unit. This simplicity is why they're often more durable and cheaper to fix. The trade-off is the required skill to operate it smoothly without grinding the gears, which is a precise mechanical operation.