Quote Originally Posted by Wahine View Post
I love that this thread has morphed into a discussion of manual vs automatic trannie cars. I mean that sincerely.

Any guesses what I drive? Anyone? Anyone?

A manual!!!! I know you're all surprised. But here's a little something to ponder. My MT Honda Fit gets better gas mileage and is a waaaaaaay peppier ride than my friend's identical but AT Fit. I do have to agree that if you live in a city and get stuck in traffic, it's PITA. But in all other ways, MT is a huge plus IMHO.
It IS interesting how this thread has morphed - but in the end - it IS still about drive-trains

Quote Originally Posted by luvmyguys View Post
Dh's last car was a manual for that reason - it was peppier than the comparable automatic. Chemo, one stress fracture (during which I had to give up my beloved Highlander because he couldn't drive a stick with a boot on) and a whole lot of traffic later, automatic it was.

The stick IS more fun. Just not practical around here, unfortunately.
I love the peppier lower gears I get in my cars than the comparable automatics. I am sure there are ATs out there that are just as peppy and responsive, but not in my price range. At least I've not found one. I don't have issues driving in traffic with a stick so I can't really identify with that - but I've NEVER owned an automatic. Back in my taxi-driving years long ago my taxi was indeed an automatic but I HATED that car for far more reasons than the transmission. The only problem I've had with a manual was post-foot-surgery in 2004 - it took me a LOT longer to get back to driving than it would have been as my foot couldn't take the pressure of the clutch once I was cleared for driving.