Buying your own car is a good investment as long as you get a sturdy model that is fuel-efficient and has the right space for your needs. These days, you can get a great deal on any van or car of your choice, so gone are the days when you had to choose between cost and quality.
Now, the exact make and vehicle type you choose really depends on your preferences, but the main thing to consider is whether you should pick a manual or automatic transmission car. If you aren’t sure what to take into consideration, these things may help you make the best choice fit for your style.
Automatic is easier to use but stick has better control
This factor is really dependent on your own skill or simply your preference. If you just want an easy drive where you don’t really have to think too much and you can mostly keep both hands on the wheel, automatic is your pick. Beginner drivers will also find it much more forgiving when learning the ropes. As long as you know how to put it into drive, reverse, and park, there’s really little that can go wrong unless you’re a particularly poor driver.
That said, manual transmission provides much more in terms of control. You have access to different gears and an extra pedal, so while this takes a little more effort to learn and get a comfortable grasp on, it can really make for a more tuned drive. Also, once you learn how to drive stick, it’s much easier to transition into auto, while the opposite is not the same case.
Manual is actually easier to maintain parts-wise but auto is more advanced and doesn’t have clutch
In terms of maintenance, you’ll want to consider the expenses that come into repairs and upkeep as well as the availability of the parts that could cause problems. This will definitely vary depending on the specific make and model of your vehicle, of course, but there are certain differences in any manual or auto car that could contribute to your decision.
First, a manual transmission has a less complicated structure. Even though you are fiddling with more parts while driving, the design is quite straightforward so you’re likely to have less trouble with any mishaps. It’s durable and doesn’t rely on too many complicated components so it’s cheaper, however, you also have that added worry with the clutch. If this goes awry, you’re in for a hassle that is also going to be quite pricey.
An automatic transmission doesn’t have a clutch, and it’s also designed for performance. This is part of what makes it so easy for the user. That said, it also means that underneath it all is a complex design with newer technologies so that you don’t have to work as hard when you drive. This usually means more maintenance that can be a little pricier to maintain in general.
Auto is designed to be fuel-efficient but manual can consume less if you use it right
There is some debate on whether auto or manual is better with fuel consumption, and you’ll often find that different sources will have a different answer. There are some definite factors that come into play here, though.
Auto transmission, with its newer design, is meant to consume fuel efficiently because it automatically decides how much is needed for any drive or situation. That said, it often takes up more power on the onset because of the hydraulics and their layout. With proper maintenance, it should manage well to keep consumption low.
Manual transmission is lighter and uses less power, so the fuel economy is better on its own. But shifting gears and consumption of fuel is largely dependent on the driver’s ability or style, so if you drive with great effort or you’re often in steep inclines, you’re also likely to use up more fuel in the long run.
Manual can help you choose how to get through tough spots but automatic is arguably less effort
Going through an uphill drive, going down a steep incline, or turning a tight corner? What’s better between the two for these situations depends on what you want out of your vehicle and driving experience.
A manual transmission will, again, provide you more control so you can maneuver it in a way you deem best for the situation. This is also useful if you’re managing your fuel. However, automatic makes the necessary adjustments for you. While this pulls on the power of the car, you don’t have to worry as much about messing up and as long you’ve got your foot on the pedal, it will be much easier to get through it without having to strain through the clutch and shift.
So, with around 17 million vehicles being produced every year, the decision for finding the right one falls on what factors you think are right for you.