
Normally, the maximum speed in 1st gear can reach 45km/h, which is related to the engine displacement and tuning. Taking a 1.6L manual transmission car as an example, when the engine reaches the maximum speed of 6000r/min, the 1st gear can reach 45km/h, the 2nd gear can reach a maximum speed of 81km/h, the 3rd gear can reach a maximum speed of 133km/h, the 4th gear can reach 183km/h, and the 5th gear can reach a speed of 230km/h. The engine speed, gear, and vehicle speed should be matched. When the speed matches the gear, the vehicle's performance is at its best, and the thermal efficiency of the fuel is the highest. If the speed does not match the gear, such as high speed with low gear or low speed with high gear, it will not only increase fuel consumption but also cause damage to the engine and transmission, resulting in irreversible damage to the vehicle. Therefore, the gear and speed must be matched during driving. The 1st gear is used for normal starting, and the speed is generally around 10km/h. The 2nd gear is a transitional gear for acceleration after starting or for low-speed driving, with a speed generally around 20km/h. The 3rd gear is used for speeds between 20-40km/h and is commonly used for city driving. The 4th gear can be used for speeds between 40-60km/h. The 5th gear is used for speeds above 60km/h.

When driving a manual transmission car, I've noticed that the top speed in first gear is generally only around 20 to 30 km/h, depending on the vehicle model. Smaller cars might reach slightly higher, up to 40 km/h, but it's best not to push it too hard. Otherwise, the engine roars loudly, and the high RPMs can damage the car. This gear is designed primarily for starting or climbing steep hills, where high torque is needed, and lower speeds are normal. Once, out of curiosity, I tried flooring the accelerator on a flat road to test the limit, but the car just whined without gaining speed, reminding me to shift to second gear quickly to avoid overheating. With more driving experience, you'll understand that driving fast in first gear has no benefits—it just wastes fuel and accelerates wear. Safety first; once you exceed 30 km/h, it's wise to shift up promptly.

As someone who frequently drives in the city, I believe the maximum speed in first gear should generally not exceed 40 km/h, especially for manual transmission vehicles. This gear isn't designed for high speeds; it's mainly for starting and stable low-speed driving. If you force the speed higher, not only will the engine roar uncomfortably, but it may also trigger driving hazards, such as potential tailspin during turns. I remember once when my friend, a new driver unfamiliar with this, tried to speed in first gear, causing severe jerking. I quickly reminded him that normal first gear usage should stay between 20 to 35 km/h, and timely gear shifting is crucial. Prolonged forced high-speed driving can also damage the transmission. Wouldn't it be better to save on repair costs?

Driving too fast in first gear isn't meaningful. Most vehicle manuals indicate a maximum speed of just 30-40 km/h, even lower for manual transmissions. When reaching this speed, the engine struggles, signaling it's time to shift up. Designed primarily for starting off, I often use first gear in city traffic jams, maintaining a speed of 15-25 km/h for better fuel efficiency and reduced wear. Don't recklessly test the limits—it harms the car without benefit. Safe driving is what truly matters.

I know about cars, the reason why first gear can't reach high speeds is simple: the gear ratio is set short for high torque at start-up, so the top speed is limited, usually between 20 to 40 kilometers per hour. If you rev above 3000 RPM, the car will only go so fast, and higher RPMs will redline and damage the engine. Different cars have different situations, a family sedan might alarm at 30, while an SUV can go higher. Normally, I only use first gear in low-speed situations, like climbing a garage ramp. I suggest paying attention to the engine sound; if it's buzzing too much, shift gears to avoid accidents.

When driving a manual transmission car, I always remind myself not to exceed 40 km/h in first gear for safety and vehicle protection. This is a common misconception—some people think pushing it higher can test the car's performance, but it actually wastes fuel and increases wear. First gear is designed for starting or steep slopes, so it's naturally slower, and the engine RPM has limits—for example, even at 4000 RPM, the speed won't increase much. I remember once trying it a few times and noticing the car shaking when the speed went over 30 km/h, so I quickly shifted up to smooth things out. Using it properly in daily driving can extend the car's lifespan.


