OK, I'm an old manual transmission driver/fan from way back. Manuals trans are more "fun" to drive, definitely better for most road racing applications, and offer more flexabilty in operation of the vehicle.

However, automatic transmissions have come a long way. I find the 5 speed auto with the grade logic in my TLS to be an awesome transmission. (assuming it keeps on working right)

I hear a lot of comments on here basically saying how a manual trans is "faster" than autos, everything else being equal. If you had two equal TLSs, one with a 6 speed manual and the other with the 5 speed auto......
which one would win a standing start street drag race, say 0 to 70 or 80 mph?? And why???

I use to believe the manual would be faster, but I generally find that is not the case. The 6 speed manual has one more gear, but probably has one more shift to make than auto, depending on how the gear ratios are. Also, as much I like manuals, you just can't shift as fast as an auto.....and there are other points to made for each side.......discuss!

 

If youre comparing two TLS bone stock, I would say the manual transmission car would win every time (unless you have a non-driver at the wheel) Reason being there is much less drivetrain power loss through a clutch (stick) than a torque converter (auto).

The auto car might get a slight jump off the line, but the stick car would catch up and win.

You would be surprised how quick some ppl can shift a MT, including me

 

im satisfied with our lovely smooth shifting auto trannys, but then imagine the pull from the 6spd ones.........