What are the types and differences of car transmissions?
3 Answers
Transmissions are divided into manual and automatic types, and their differences lie in their distinct characteristics. The following are the differences in characteristics between transmissions: 1. Manual transmission: The shift clutch is a wet multi-plate clutch. When hydraulic pressure presses the driving plates and driven plates together via the piston, the clutch engages. When the working fluid is discharged from the piston cylinder, the return spring causes the piston to retract, disengaging the clutch. 2. Automatic transmission: After the engine starts, the crankshaft drives the pump impeller to rotate through the flywheel. The centrifugal force generated by the rotation causes the working fluid between the impeller blades to be thrown from the inner edge to the outer edge. Below is additional information about the features of automatic transmissions: 1. Manual mode: The manual mode can best reflect the driver's intention, allowing them to select gears according to their needs. 2. Shift by RPM: It also allows shifting at lower RPMs when urgent driving is required. 3. Gear maintenance: When encountering a steep downhill, the gear can be maintained in first or second gear.
I've always loved driving, especially the feeling of complete control with a manual transmission. You have to press the clutch and shift gears, and when you get skilled, you can even downshift and blip the throttle—it's a sensation of becoming one with the car that an automatic just can't provide. But automatics come in several types: AT is the most common, with a bit of jerkiness during shifts but great durability; dual-clutch shifts quickly and delivers direct acceleration, though it tends to jerk and overheat in traffic; CVT is the smoothest, lacking excitement but saving fuel; AMT is affordable but noticeably jerky. If you're after driving pleasure, go for a manual. For convenience, choose AT or CVT. Don’t underestimate transmission choice—it directly determines whether driving is a joy or a chore.
For parents like me who shuttle kids every day, transmission reliability is the top concern. Manual transmissions save fuel but can leave your left leg cramping in traffic, making automatics the family favorite. CVTs are exceptionally smooth, preventing car sickness for kids in the back seat while maintaining low fuel consumption. ATs offer mature technology and easy maintenance, though with slightly higher fuel consumption. Dual-clutch transmissions excel on highways but come with steep repair costs. AMTs are budget-friendly but too jerky, making kids cry. For average families, CVTs or ATs are recommended—durable and cost-effective. Remember, the maintenance cost of a dual-clutch could cover half a year's fuel, so carefully consider long-term expenses before purchasing.
