Stick or Automatic?

Do you like to drive stick or automatic?

Most of the people nowadays learn how to drive with an automatic transmission. But there are still some drivers, especially enthusiast, who drives stick or manual transmission.

So which one is better?

Automatic transmission is easier to drive since you only have to deal with two pedals - gas and brake. You can see people driving with their left leg up on the seat since you really just need your right leg to step on the pedals making it more convenient. It is also less stressful and tiring since you do not have to keep on shifting while driving which can be really tiring if you are stuck in traffic or even driving in a metropolis.

Of course, there are also drawbacks. First - and I don't know if this is still true - if your car breaks down, you cannot push it to the side or even push start the car because its automatic clutch will not engage the engine while being pushed. Also automatic transmissions are more expensive and harder to maintain. And since its an automatic, the pick up isn't as quick as a manual car and the engine ends up working harder at higher speed.

The good thing about Manual Transmission is that it is easier to maintain and has a lower maintenance cost. Its good for high speed driving since the engine is not working as hard as an engine in a automatic car. It is also faster in picking up speed since you have control on when to shift instead of the computer inside an automatic transmission engine. It is cheaper and lighter and can be push start if your battery dies.

The only drawback with manual transmission is its more work since you have to deal with not only three pedals but also the shifting. It is also harder to learn because you have to find the balance between clutch and gas pedal or else you end up stalling the car or burning the clutch. Then you might shift the wrong gear which can damage the engine and transmission. Also, you have learn to balance clutch and gas especially if you are stopped uphill or else your car will end up going reverse. And it will be tiring to keep on shifting especially if you are stuck in traffic.

So which one is better? Its really up to the driver. I prefer driving a stick since its more fun and I the gas mileage is really great. Of course it can be tiring if I get stuck in rush hour traffic that by the time I get to my destination, my legs are slightly tired.

But it is worth it.

So which one do you prefer?