This is the classic argument among automotive enthusiasts. Some purists insist that they will only drive a manual transmission. Most people don’t care. As far as benefits, you will hear claims of better fuel economy, more vehicle control, more fun, less maintenance, among other claims; many of which are debatable. When all is said and done it does not really matter and comes down to personal preference. Stop and go traffic will usually cure all by the most diehard enthusiast of driving a manual transmission. (Anyone who wants to comment and tell me how wrong I am, I don’t care) If you enjoy shifting for yourself, by all means get the 4-speed.

1. Manual Transmission Cars For Sale

If not, look for another vehicle. The standard transmissions of the time were three speed with a shifter on the column sometimes referred to as three on the tree. These were sturdier and more reliable than the automatics and gave good service. Second and third had synchromesh but first did not since it was only engaged when you were stopped. The low tune of most engines gave them lugging ability and this tranny worked great for a stock set up. Hot rodders needed to control the rpm to a tighter band because of the full race cams and shaved heads.

They found their salvation in a gearbox from Saginaw Michigan. The four speed gearbox was mounted right behind the bell housing and the short sturdy shift linkage was tied to a floor mounted stick. This made for a robust shifter with quick gear changes without usually screwing up the linkage. The H pattern made for a quick shift from first to second giving the drag racer the ability to stay on cam at the critical part of a drag race.

Manual Transmission Cars For Sale

A good freshly rebuilt manual will last 2x’s as long as a good rebuilt Auto, if this truck is a garage queen it won’t matter, if you are going to drive it 12–25k per year the manual is a better choice, and traffic means nothing you get so used to it it’s like breathing (when was the last time you had to remember to breath?) I own 5 vehicles 4 are manual I CARE NOT ABOUT TRAFFIC! But I don’t like auto’s because in the 35 years I’m driving I’ve had auto’s fail and always without warning, one day you put in drive and nothing! Or cruising along and slip like it’s in Neutral, Manuals won’t break like that unless the oil leaks out! I’ve lost gears in a Manual but limp home is always better than towing!!!