What is the difference between 6AT and 6MT in cars?

[WillowLynn]

The differences between 6AT and 6MT in cars are as follows: Different references: 6MT refers to a 6-speed (excluding reverse gear) manual transmission, which is a manual gearbox; 6AT refers to a 6-speed (excluding reverse gear) automatic transmission, which is an automatic gearbox. Different characteristics: The characteristic of 6MT is that the gear ratios of each gear are smaller, closer, and more tightly matched, making it easier to unleash the maximum power of the engine; The characteristics of the 6AT transmission are smoothness, a combination of fun and quality, compact size, wide transmission range, durability, and the ability to withstand high torque;

[LaKimberly]

I've driven manual transmission cars for many years. 6MT refers to a 6-speed manual transmission where you need to press the clutch and shift gears yourself. This thing is fun to drive, especially on mountain roads where you can feel the rhythm of gear shifting. 6AT is an automatic transmission where the computer handles the shifting for you, making it particularly suitable for traffic jams as it frees up your left foot and right hand. In terms of fuel consumption, there's not much difference nowadays. While manual transmissions used to be more fuel-efficient, modern 6ATs are also quite economical when properly matched. Maintenance-wise, manual transmissions are cheaper - replacing a clutch plate costs just a few hundred yuan. But if the valve body of an automatic transmission fails, it could cost several thousand. Beginners learning with manual transmissions can better understand vehicle principles, while experienced drivers who prioritize convenience often choose 6AT directly.

[Finn]

In 20 years of car repair, the most common issue I've encountered is transmission problems. The 6MT has a simple and clear structure, just a few gear sets and synchronizers, making maintenance particularly hassle-free. Changing the transmission oil costs just 200 yuan. The 6AT is much more complex, with planetary gear sets and hydraulic valve bodies inside, making repairs particularly labor-intensive. Yesterday, a car with a 6AT transmission failure came into the shop, requiring the transmission to be lifted out and disassembled, with labor costs alone amounting to 800 yuan. Manual transmission clutches are consumables, typically needing replacement after about 80,000 kilometers; the torque converters in automatic transmissions, however, are quite durable. The driving feel of the two transmissions is completely different: manual transmissions offer a direct power transfer sensation, while automatic transmissions are much smoother.

[VonOlive]

Car enthusiasts absolutely prefer the 6MT manual transmission. The roar of the engine during every heel-and-toe downshift is pure enjoyment. Driving a 6AT feels like riding in a taxi, with the computer controlling gear shifts, lacking that sense of mastery over the machine. With a manual, you can freely control the RPM, like downshifting twice and rev-matching before entering a corner—something an automatic can't fully replicate. On the track, testing the same car model, the manual transmission is half a second faster per lap. However, for city commuting, the 6AT reigns supreme, sparing your left foot from clutch cramps in traffic. Nowadays, manual transmissions in performance cars are becoming increasingly rare—many BMW M models, for example, only offer automatics.