The way that driving has always been done. In order to drive in manual, you control a clutch and a gearshift in addition to gas and brakes. Manual transmissions give you much more information about your car such as its feel, its power, its engine to gear ratios, etc.

Newcomers to manual transmissions often stall out and get frustrated by the addition of extra controls. But if you practice at it a lot, it becomes delightfully challenging, you will feel out of place in an automatic by comparison, and the feeling you get when you drive circles (or donuts) around your friends is totally worth it.
I've been driving in manual transmission for so long, automatic just didn't feel the same. My hand kept reaching for a stick that wasn't there, and I almost hit the emergency brake thinking it was the clutch. I hope automakers keep offering stick-shift models!
by spinaltapsoundguy November 10, 2009
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Also known as a stick shift or manual. Only true drivers and/or racers have experienced this kind of thrilling way of driving. Usually will result in ultimate bordedom if switched back to automatic transmission. Not a car for Wimps, posers, and of the sort.
Racer boy in Honda Civic: Yo, you want to race that Lexus IS 300 against my tricked out civic?
Me(Walking over to examine his car):Hell no!
Racer boy: Why not?
Me: I'd burn you cos you dont drive manual transmission.
Racer boy: Thats true... i suck :*(
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A very fun way to drive any car. It requires a bit of skill to drive as it requires you to shift from gear to gear and use a clutch pedal at the same time. It allows the driver to be in full control of the car and become more focused on your driving and the terrain, which is appealing to car enthusiasts. Learning how to drive stick takes practice, and you may stall the engine a few times at first. After a while, it becomes an extension of you hand to the point where you are automatically shifting gears without much thought.

A manual transmission will also give you better gas mileage compared to an automatic, assuming you drive diligently and not mash your right foot to the floor all the time. Shifting through the gears when accelerating from a stop can give you a rush of adrenaline and it is up to you to dictate whether to drive for economy or performance.

A manual transmission is also more durable than an automatic since the only thing that really wears out is the clutch, which isn't very expensive to fix. When an automatic breaks down, it can cost thousands to repair. That's why a lot of commercial trucks have manual transmissions.

Sadly, the manual transmission is getting more scarce in modern cars, most not even offering a manual transmission at all. It is a chore in heavy traffic as you have to shift constantly. That being said, driving stick isn't for everyone. It is still a good skill to learn and it can be very enjoyable to drive a car with a manual transmission.
"I used to have a 1994 Toyota Pickup with a 5-speed manual transmission and it was pretty fun to drive. It was just me, the car, and the road, with no electronic garbage in between us."
by Omegadoomship64 March 31, 2019
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The superior way of driving. More engaging and reliable although a rarity in the United States. To drive one, your left foot modulates a clutch and your right foot modulates the brakes/gas. You start going in motion when the clutch bites.
Did you see my new Honda Civic ?

u/hiyacoolcat7685's new car is a manual transmission, meaning he's a great driver
by hiyacoolcat April 28, 2024
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