What is a Manual Transmission?
4 Answers
Manual transmission (MT), also known as manual gearbox, requires the driver to manually shift gears by moving the gear lever to change the gear meshing device inside the transmission, thereby altering the gear ratio to achieve speed variation. A manual transmission typically has 6 gears: 5 forward gears (switched based on vehicle speed and engine RPM) and 1 reverse gear. There are 3 pedals underfoot: clutch, throttle, and brake. The manual transmission features simple structure and high reliability. Theoretically, manual transmissions offer better fuel efficiency than automatic transmissions. Working principle of manual transmission: The pump wheel and turbine form a working pair, which can be likened to two opposing fans. The airflow from one fan drives the rotation of the other fan's blades, with the airflow acting as the kinetic energy transfer medium. If liquid replaces air as the kinetic energy transfer medium, the pump wheel drives the turbine to rotate through the liquid. By adding a guide wheel between the pump wheel and turbine, the speed difference between them is achieved through reaction force, enabling speed and torque variation.
A manual transmission car is the kind where I have to shift gears myself while driving. It gives a complete sense of control over the vehicle, especially during high-speed acceleration—I decide when to upshift, and the fuel consumption is often lower than with an automatic. It can be a bit troublesome in city traffic due to frequent clutch use, and beginners might stall, but once you get used to it, it becomes smooth. I also love downshifting manually before turns to use engine braking, which adds to the driving fun. Nowadays, fewer new cars come with manual transmissions, as most are automatic, but older cars, like those from twenty years ago, often had manuals. Manual cars are usually cheaper when buying new and easier to find in the used market, but they require practice. I always advise new drivers to try a manual—it improves driving skills and can save some money on fuel.
A manual transmission is a system where the driver manually shifts gears, operating both the clutch and gear stick. From a cost-saving perspective, manual transmissions generally offer better fuel efficiency, simpler maintenance, and cheaper parts. For someone like me who frequently drives long distances, a manual transmission can save a significant amount on fuel costs over a year. Compared to automatic transmissions, manuals have fewer electronic components, resulting in lower failure rates and less stress during extended driving. However, it's important to watch out for clutch wear—after a few years, it needs inspection to prevent slippage. In city traffic, constantly pressing the clutch can be annoying, but on the highway, shifting gears freely is incredibly satisfying. I still drive a manual transmission car today, feeling more connected to the driving experience rather than being passive like with automatic transmissions.
Learning to drive a manual transmission car can be challenging at first. I had to coordinate pressing the clutch and shifting gears, and often stalled when starting, but persistence makes it enjoyable. Manual transmission means the driver directly controls the gear combinations, and I regulate the engine speed. Compared to automatic transmissions, it responds faster, especially feeling more stable when climbing hills or taking turns. After getting used to manual driving, I can handle city roads smoothly—just takes practice to improve. I recommend practicing on open roads; once mastered, it's very fuel-efficient.
