Manual or automatic car

When purchasing a new car, one of the first dilemmas we face is between a manual transmission and an automatic transmission. So how does a manual transmission work, and what is an automatic transmission? What are the differences between them, and which car should we, the drivers, choose? In the following article, we have summarized the main differences for you.

The different gearboxes and the difference between them The car's gearbox is essentially the system that connects the engine to the car, controlling the driving speed and dictating how the car should drive. In the past, all types of cars had a manual transmission, where the driver had to shift gears manually. By pressing the clutch, the gear wheel is released, allowing the driver to shift up or down and control the driving speed and engine power. Over time, different types of gearboxes have developed, including semi-automatic, robotic, and fully automatic transmissions.

In a semi-automatic gearbox, gear shifting is done by the driver, but the clutch is operated automatically by the car. In other words, when the car's engine struggles to the point of shifting gears, all the driver has to do is shift to the next gear, and vice versa when downshifting.

In a robotic gearbox, all gear-shifting actions are performed by the car, but the gearbox itself is built like a manual gearbox.

In an automatic gearbox, the gear wheel mechanism is designed in such a way that the car changes gears independently, according to the need and driving speed.

What is happening today? Today, the car market has changed drastically. Automatic technological systems are taking over the roads in Israel, to the point where most new cars offered for sale in the country have an automatic transmission. In Europe, however, even innovative luxury cars are still sold in manual versions, and it seems to be more popular. They have not yet given up complete control of driving in favor of a free left foot and a less busy right hand. In America, by the way, it is rare to find manual cars, probably because laziness prevails there. Maybe rightly so.

So what is better, manual or automatic? Okay, let's get to the point. When we come to purchase a new car, which car is recommended to invest in? A car with a manual transmission or an automatic transmission? We have listed the important points you need to know.

Manual transmission – the advantages The manual gearbox has advantages that you will not find in an automatic car, and here is the list:

Control and safety - First and foremost is the control of the car. When gear shifting is done manually by the driver, there is a sense of control that does not exist in an automatic car. Additionally, the ability to determine the driving speed more quickly and easily control the braking distance and technique makes driving safer.

Alertness - When gear shifting is done automatically, we tend to "forget" about driving a bit, which can make us feel a little tired. However, when there is a constant need to shift gears correctly and maneuver the car's performance, we remain alert at all times. Of course, even in a manual car, it is important to get behind the wheel alert and focused.

Market value – prices - One of the main advantages of a manual car is its overall cost. From the purchase of the car, the price of a manual car is much cheaper than an automatic one, sometimes with differences that can reach tens of thousands of shekels. The cost of maintaining a manual car is also cheaper, repairs are cheaper compared to an automatic gearbox, the braking system wears out more slowly, insurance is cheaper, and fuel consumption is lower. In the long run, the total cost of a manual car may be much cheaper than an automatic car.

So where's the catch? And what are the advantages of an automatic transmission? So if a manual car is so much fun, what are the advantages of an automatic car? We have also taken care of this list for you.

Comfort - First of all, comfort. While control of the car is a good thing, the comfort of automatic gear shifting is a winning card for many drivers. Driving a manual car can be tiring and exhausting, while driving an automatic car does half the work for you. Especially in traffic jams and complicated roads, where the need for gear shifting increases, an automatic gearbox is a perfect solution.

Safety - You probably won't be surprised, but when the driver is constantly involved in driving, it can sometimes backfire, causing more frustration on complex roads and, in extreme cases, even erratic driving. An automatic transmission can calm the driving and moderate even the most stressed drivers among us.

Market value - In a few years, when you want to sell the car, it will be easier and more worthwhile to sell an automatic car. For the simple reason that an automatic car has higher demand in the Israeli market, so its value is preserved more than a manual car.

In conclusion, if you are a staunch supporter of a manual transmission, nothing will convince you otherwise. On the other hand, if you are not set on it, make your considerations, check whether you prefer the control and fun of a manual transmission or the comfort and calmness of an automatic transmission. And most importantly, enjoy your new car and drive safely!