Manual Vs Automatic – Which Is Best?

Whenever someone starts their lessons one of the most common questions asked is “Should I Learn Manual or Automatic?” The simple answer is there is no right or wrong and there are pros and cons to both and you generally won’t be affected until you pass your test, the final decision all boils down to personal preference and how patient you are. Automatic cars are generally more accessible but they may not be the right choice for you, in this short blog we’re going to help you answer any questions you may have and hopefully help you make the right decision.

Manual v Automatic

A manual car simply runs through clutch control and gears, depending on your driving speed and your car depends on you to choose the right gear failure to do so will lead to your vehicle stalling. Although for beginners the manual gearbox may seem difficult as changing between six gears may seem daunting ranging between low and high speeds. Automatic cars do exactly what they say on the tin and are often referred to as go karts this is because of their two pedal start system.

The automatic gearbox is made up of four main functions: park, reverse, neutral and drive as long as you’re in the drive gear whilst moving you need not worry about stalling. Automatic cars tend to change gears on their own depending on the speed you are driving, automatic cars are usually more desirable and an all round smoother driver experience. The most considerable difference between the two is price and it’s usually relatively more substantial.

Pros and Cons of Manual Cars

Some of the Pros of Manual Cars are:

Lower Running Costs – The overall cost of running a manual car is substantially lower including repairs, insurance and the actual vehicle itself. Particularly more appealing for newly passed drivers purchasing their first vehicle.
Affordable Lessons – It may come as a surprise but lessons in a manual car tend to be cheaper, definitely more appealing for new drivers no matter the age.
Reliable Control and Responses – A manual car is easier to navigate and control simply because you are in control of the gears giving a more reliable responsive driving experience.
Better in Bad Weather Conditions – You will find that driving in bad weather conditions such as rain, wind and snow is a lot easier because you’re in control and can control the gears.
More Freedom – We consider this the most important advantage simply because if you pass in a manual car you have the freedom to drive any car you like.

Some of the Cons of Manual Cars are:

Harder to Learn – It’s no secret manual driving lessons are significantly more difficult than automatic as there is so much more to learn especially clutch and pedal. This could result in someone needing more lessons to pass.
Changing Gear Entails More Focus – Changing gears can become more tiring and inconvenient to some drivers especially if you’re used to taking journeys that require different speed limits.

Pros and Cons of Automatic Cars

Some of the Pros of Automatic Cars are:

Easier to learn – It’s no secret that learning to drive automatic cars is so much easier and because of this you’re going to need a lot less lessons meaning you spend less money and pass your test quicker generally speaking. Most drivers exclaim they have a smoother driving experience leading to them enjoying driving more.
Two Hands on The Wheel – It’s always a good habit to drive with two hands on the wheel. Driving an automatic allows this at all times as your hands aren’t otherwise engaged with the gearbox.
You Pass Faster – If you’re rushing to pass your test, learning automatic increases your chances.

Some of the Cons of Automatic Cars are:

You Can Only Drive Automatic Cars – This is the biggest disadvantage of all when you learn in an automatic you will only be able to drive an automatic and you will pass your test with an automatic license.
More Expensive – Automatic cars are usually always more expensive to buy, run and repair.
Less control – If you’re driving in bad weather conditions automatic cars are generally more hard to control simply because you can’t control the gears to maintain speed.