Even given that automatic transmissions have caught up with manual transmissions in fuel efficiency, cost (getting there), and acceleration, it seems to me that you‘re sacrificing control, letting it make decisions for you. I know that people would like an extra hand to run other errands in the car, but I‘m not one that needs that extra hand very much. Also, performance of automatics consistently degrade from brand new until it‘s time for a major service, when manuals offer consistent performance until the clutch begins to give out.
One advantage of having a automatic is making it easier for resale. The large majority want automatics. Unless the car is sporty I think the auto would be easier to re-sell.
I too prefer manual transmission for the most part. But automatic is better in stop-and-go traffic on hills. Not only is it easier, but less wear-and-tear on the clutch. Also, some people have physical conditions that make the clutch harder to use, or it can cause back pain or sacroiliac pain in some individuals.
It depends on the driver. All cars have their problems.regardless of make or model. Automatic transmissions are now very sophistocated pieces of machinery. Automatic transmissions, when serviced appropriately and driven correctly create better performance, gas milage and dependability. Be careful. Most dealerships (sales-people and service reps) will tell you incorect ways of driving and servicing transmissions (their way of working on a tranny is to pull it out and replace it with a factory remanufatured model). Find a good transmission shop, ask if there are any updates they can do (many transmissions have updates in the valve body that are inexpensive, yet greatly improve performance). Depending on your driving, ask about a transmission cooler and apropriate service schedule. When used and maintained correctly, today's automatic transmissions greatly outshine manuals (I don't know about you but I have found few people who drive standars without raping the clutch or ruining synchronizing forks). If you have any questions my best friend owns a transmission shop and he would be gald to help you out.
