Which is faster between manual and automatic transmissions with the same displacement?
2 Answers
The manual transmission version of the same car model is generally faster. Differences between manual and automatic transmission models: In terms of purchase price: For the same brand and model, manual transmission cars are cheaper than automatic ones. In terms of maintenance costs: Manual transmission cars have significantly lower maintenance costs compared to automatic transmissions. Since automatic transmissions originated abroad and China's research on them isn't yet mature, maintenance costs for automatic transmissions are higher. In terms of driving experience: Manual transmission cars allow drivers to truly experience the joy of driving and feel the pleasure of controlling the vehicle. Automatic transmission cars don't offer these sensations - you just shift into gear and go. Beyond the steering wheel, brakes and accelerator, everything else is controlled by computer, creating a feeling that the car is controlling the driver.
Driving a manual transmission on the track indeed offers faster acceleration because I can directly control the gear-shifting timing with minimal power loss. Pressing the throttle and shifting gears flow seamlessly, delivering lightning-fast acceleration response. In contrast, automatic transmissions require electronic system intervention, always introducing a slight delay in speed. However, this also tests driving skills—beginners might find it less smooth than an automatic. For daily use, automatics are more convenient in the city, but if pure speed is the goal, a manual remains my top choice. It also depends on the transmission type; dual-clutch automatics are decent, but traditional manuals feel purer, offering such strong control that it’s like the car is obeying your every command.
