What is the difference between a small manual transmission car and a small automatic transmission car?

[CamilaLynn]

Automatic transmission and manual transmission cars mainly differ in that automatic transmissions rely on hydraulic oil for power transmission, while manual transmissions use mechanical gears. Below is a partial introduction to automatic transmissions: 1. Gear distribution: Generally, automatic transmission cars have six gear positions, from top to bottom: P, R, N, D, S, L. 2. Automatic principle: The engine's power is transmitted through the gearbox, which is also a key factor affecting fuel consumption. Generally, automatic transmissions consume 10% more fuel than manual transmissions. Whether manual or automatic, the more gears a transmission has, the more fuel-efficient it is.

[DelWilliam]

To be honest, driving a manual transmission keeps both your hands and feet busy—left foot on the clutch, right hand shifting gears. Starting at a red light requires precise coordination between the throttle and clutch, and your ankles ache during uphill traffic jams. But the upside is it’s cheaper by 10,000 to 20,000 yuan, repair costs are lower, and experienced drivers can coast in neutral to save some fuel. Controlling the gears yourself on mountain roads is exhilarating, with the revs at your command. An automatic transmission, on the other hand, is hassle-free—just press the gas and go, staying in Drive all the way. No clutch struggles in traffic, and even high heels are no issue for female drivers. However, maintenance is pricier, with a single transmission fluid change costing several thousand yuan. For daily city commuting, an automatic is definitely the way to go.

[DiMolly]

Manual transmissions are structurally simple and reliable, with the engine connected to the clutch plate and then to the gearbox, featuring pure mechanical transmission. Automatic transmissions are far more complex, incorporating torque converters in ATs, steel belts and cone pulleys in CVTs, and dual clutch modules in DCTs. In terms of driving, manual transmissions allow precise control over engine speed, making downshifting for overtaking more powerful. Automatic transmissions offer smoother operation but respond slower, unless in sport mode. Fuel consumption is generally 0.5-1 liter lower for manual transmissions, especially noticeable with skilled drivers. Maintenance costs are lower for manuals—replacing a clutch kit costs around two thousand, while repairing an automatic transmission can run into tens of thousands.

[AubreeMarie]

Beginners are advised to learn manual transmission first. Mastering clutch and gear shifting makes driving automatic feel like a vacation. Practicing hill starts with proper throttle-clutch coordination during training ensures stability in any vehicle later. Automatic transmissions can foster bad habits like mistakenly pressing the accelerator. However, for multi-driver households, automatics allow anyone to drive - even seniors can reverse by just braking. Modern automatics are highly refined with barely noticeable gear shifts. Yet manual transmission's driving engagement remains irreplaceable, especially the thrilling engine roar during rev-matching downshifts.