What is the difference between AMT and manual-automatic transmission?

[SamuelRose]

Transmission is one of the important drivetrain components of a car, and transmission performance is also a key parameter determining vehicle performance. Transmissions are mainly divided into manual transmissions and automatic transmissions. Among them, both AT and AMT belong to automatic transmissions. The specific differences between the two are as follows: AT Transmission: The AT transmission consists of a valve body, oil pump, clutch, brake, one-way clutch, diaphragm spring, snap ring, steel plates, friction plates, large sun gear, small sun gear, planetary carrier, and ring gear. The AT transmission has a complex and precise structure, and in actual vehicle installation, it needs to be connected to a torque converter. AT - Automatic Transmission, mature technology, relatively higher fuel consumption. AMT Transmission: The AMT transmission is essentially a manual transmission with automatic clutch and gear-shifting control functions. Its structure is fundamentally the same as that of a traditional parallel-shaft manual transmission. AMT transmissions generally have relatively larger shift shocks (though advancements in electronic control technology have made shifting actions and timing more precise, reducing the shocks). They are simple in structure, highly reliable, and easy to maintain. Since they are essentially manual transmissions with added automatic clutch and shifting mechanisms, they have more gear ratios, making them more adaptable to various complex operating conditions. Ordinary AMT transmissions cannot amplify input torque because they lack a torque converter, except for some heavy-duty transport vehicles that use AMT transmissions equipped with torque converters to handle their specific operating conditions.

[ElenaLee]

AMT is essentially a manual transmission with automatic control, where the computer handles the clutch and gear shifts for you. It's cost-effective and fuel-efficient, but can be jerky in traffic, feeling unstable like a novice driver. On the other hand, a traditional automatic transmission (often referred to as "Tiptronic" or "manumatic") typically features a torque converter for smooth, seamless gear changes, with a manual mode for self-shifting, offering a more comfortable and less fatiguing driving experience. From a driver's perspective, having experienced both: AMT suits those on a tight budget, with fuel efficiency close to manual; while traditional automatics are pricier but more reliable, easier to maintain, and reduce frustration in busy cities. Which to choose? For daily commuting, I recommend the traditional automatic to avoid minor jerks, though AMT saves money on long trips. Remember, the EV era is reducing transmission needs, but ICE vehicles still dominate, and technological advances are narrowing the gap between the two.

[VonEmilia]

I drive to work every day, and the AMT feels a bit unreliable, especially when starting at traffic lights—the gear shifts with a clunk, jolting like riding a horse, which is quite annoying. The automatic transmission with manual mode is much smoother, almost imperceptible, and driving in manual mode lets you decide the gear yourself, which is a lot of fun. The core difference lies in the structure: AMT is a simple modification based on manual transmission, cheaper but prone to minor issues; the automatic transmission is a true automatic gearbox, offering more peace of mind in maintenance. In practical use, the automatic transmission is steadier in rainy weather or on highways, while the fuel savings from AMT might be offset by the hassle. As a car owner, I believe convenience is the most important, and the automatic transmission wins—it lets you focus on driving without worries. Don’t forget regular circuit maintenance to avoid unexpected breakdowns.

[MacMargaret]

When choosing a car based on economy, AMT is much more affordable compared to the manual-automatic transmission, commonly found in the used car market, fuel-efficient, and easy to maintain—perfect for someone like me who loves saving money. However, AMT has its drawbacks: noticeable gear shift jerks, which can be annoying in city traffic; maintenance is more troublesome, with electronic components prone to failure. The manual-automatic transmission offers smooth and comfortable driving, though at a higher cost, with slightly lower fuel efficiency but greater reliability and fewer issues. In terms of driving experience, AMT feels closer to a manual transmission, while the manual-automatic transmission is as effortless as cruising in automatic mode. If you're on a tight budget, AMT can hold its own; if you're after long-term peace of mind, the manual-automatic transmission is worth the investment.