Step 1: Buy 2010 SH-AWD 6-Speed Step 2:Learn how to drive 6-speed
10-12-2009, 11:35 PM
#1
Drifting
Thread Starter
Step 1: Buy 2010 SH-AWD 6-Speed Step 2:Learn how to drive 6-speed
My last two cars have been leases, a 2005 TSX and a 2007 TL Type-S. Both with automatics. I've always wanted a manual trans, I love driving and feel like I would be more engaged on the road. Plus with both my previous Acura's I would normally use the sportshift to choose my gear... 
So, after lots of consideration, I decided that the new 2010 SHAWD 6MT was going to be my next car. I decided to buy this one instead of lease again, and try to keep it till I pass 100k miles (at least). I went to the Acura dealer here in Boston, and was able to get him to take my 2007 TL off lease early, and was able to talk him down to $41,360. They gave me a bit of trouble on negotiating the price down, they didn't want to deal on something that was so "rare". But searching the area around Boston, there were not many of the Black/Ebony ones...wonder how many more they'll get....
So, since I don't really know how to drive a manual (friend taught me when i was 16, many years ago), I'm having a friend meet me at the dealership, take me to a big parking lot so I can learn it. I understand the basics, now will be the hands on fun!
I was also able to get the underbody kit for about $1450 installed, should look pretty sweet. Already thinking about the other mod's i want to get (maybe in the spring).
I'll post up some pics after I pick it up on Thursday.
-Pete
--
2010 TL SH-AWD 6MT - Almost here
2007 TL Type-S 5AT - Almost gone
2005 TSX 5AT - Gone
So, after lots of consideration, I decided that the new 2010 SHAWD 6MT was going to be my next car. I decided to buy this one instead of lease again, and try to keep it till I pass 100k miles (at least). I went to the Acura dealer here in Boston, and was able to get him to take my 2007 TL off lease early, and was able to talk him down to $41,360. They gave me a bit of trouble on negotiating the price down, they didn't want to deal on something that was so "rare". But searching the area around Boston, there were not many of the Black/Ebony ones...wonder how many more they'll get....
So, since I don't really know how to drive a manual (friend taught me when i was 16, many years ago), I'm having a friend meet me at the dealership, take me to a big parking lot so I can learn it. I understand the basics, now will be the hands on fun!
I was also able to get the underbody kit for about $1450 installed, should look pretty sweet. Already thinking about the other mod's i want to get (maybe in the spring).
I'll post up some pics after I pick it up on Thursday.
-Pete
--
2010 TL SH-AWD 6MT - Almost here
2007 TL Type-S 5AT - Almost gone
2005 TSX 5AT - Gone
10-13-2009, 06:57 AM
#3
Pro
10-13-2009, 09:54 AM
#6
Advanced
Join Date: Feb 2006
Location: BC, Canada
Age: 38
Posts: 87
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
10-13-2009, 11:41 AM
#7
Burning Brakes
Trending Topics
10-13-2009, 11:46 AM
#8
Drifting
Thread Starter
Well, I already feel like a dork most of the time, so at least it should be a familiar feeling.
But seriously, I'm hoping my friend is cool with a little time in his ride before moving to mine... After a few days I should have the hang of it...hopefully
10-13-2009, 12:17 PM
#9
AZ Community Team
Join Date: May 2007
Location: N35°03'16.75", W 080°51'0.9"
Posts: 32,488
Received 7,771 Likes
on
4,342 Posts
You'll do fine. So what if you stall a few times? Fuck the guy behind you, he's a douche.
The Hill Start Assist thing should be a great benefit for you.
The Hill Start Assist thing should be a great benefit for you.
10-13-2009, 01:05 PM
#10
Advanced
Join Date: Jul 2004
Location: NY
Age: 52
Posts: 56
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Also just got the 6-Speed AWD
I also just bought this, and have driven many sticks. One thing I'm getting use to is the super soft feel of the clutch.
So its going to take me a few weeks to get a smooth as I have been with other cars.
I'm use to more engine sound, and feel as the clutch start to engage, but both a much more subtle on this car so...
You'll get the hang of it for sure, and may be easier since you haven't driven one before, no past experience to overcome.
Congrats!!
So its going to take me a few weeks to get a smooth as I have been with other cars.
I'm use to more engine sound, and feel as the clutch start to engage, but both a much more subtle on this car so...
You'll get the hang of it for sure, and may be easier since you haven't driven one before, no past experience to overcome.
Congrats!!
10-13-2009, 04:53 PM
#12
2010 TL AWD 6MT: New King
I also just bought this, and have driven many sticks. One thing I'm getting use to is the super soft feel of the clutch.
So its going to take me a few weeks to get a smooth as I have been with other cars.
I'm use to more engine sound, and feel as the clutch start to engage, but both a much more subtle on this car so...
You'll get the hang of it for sure, and may be easier since you haven't driven one before, no past experience to overcome.
Congrats!!
So its going to take me a few weeks to get a smooth as I have been with other cars.
I'm use to more engine sound, and feel as the clutch start to engage, but both a much more subtle on this car so...
You'll get the hang of it for sure, and may be easier since you haven't driven one before, no past experience to overcome.
Congrats!!
I had an old 90 Integra 5spd which I learned to drive manual (at least full time). I recall the Integra's clutch had more feel and bite.
But I agree, once you get a hang of the TL's manual transmission, there's no going back to auto.
10-13-2009, 07:23 PM
#18
Drifting
Thread Starter
I pick it up on Thursday after work, I can't wait! It's going to be a fun challenge to learn, and I think the practice will pay off in overall enjoyment of driving again.
Should get my pic's uploaded by the end of the week.
10-13-2009, 07:28 PM
#19
Drifting
Thread Starter
10-13-2009, 07:41 PM
#20
Former Sponsor
iTrader: (12)
Yea, not too far away at all, I used to work up there, just off Rt. 3. I might get in touch with you for a headlight clearing job... But that will probably wait till the spring.
I pick it up on Thursday after work, I can't wait! It's going to be a fun challenge to learn, and I think the practice will pay off in overall enjoyment of driving again.
Should get my pic's uploaded by the end of the week.
I pick it up on Thursday after work, I can't wait! It's going to be a fun challenge to learn, and I think the practice will pay off in overall enjoyment of driving again.
Should get my pic's uploaded by the end of the week.
Which dealership are you picking the car up from ? Acura of Boston or Acura of Peabody? See if they can loan you a 6 speed for a few days before you take actual delivery of the car.
I doubt that they would have a loaner manual Acura as a loaner, you may want to try renting one from Hertz or any of the other companies, get thoroughly acquainted with the transmission before practicing on the new TL. You dont wnat to smoke the clutch on a brand new car :-/
For practice, get to a local mall parking light during after hours. If you need any sort of help then PM me. I think another option would be to just take you to Hanscom AFB.
10-13-2009, 09:46 PM
#22
CLS 6MT Navi
Enjoy your new shifter!
I always thought it was funny when my CLS 6MT was newer and I'd watch the dealer service guys try to drive it. The 03 CLS 6MT was the first 6MT 6 cylinder Acura since the 95 Legends (and NSX) so most had no experience.
I'd strongly suggest finding a older car to practice on first. unless you're a quick learner you don't want to go to the 'if you can't find 'em, grind 'em' driving school.
I've had sticks for years and it's second nature to me. If the 10 TL is as fun as my CLS has been you're in for a great ride! congrats.
I always thought it was funny when my CLS 6MT was newer and I'd watch the dealer service guys try to drive it. The 03 CLS 6MT was the first 6MT 6 cylinder Acura since the 95 Legends (and NSX) so most had no experience.
I'd strongly suggest finding a older car to practice on first. unless you're a quick learner you don't want to go to the 'if you can't find 'em, grind 'em' driving school.
I've had sticks for years and it's second nature to me. If the 10 TL is as fun as my CLS has been you're in for a great ride! congrats.
10-14-2009, 09:12 AM
#23
Drifting
Thread Starter
Which dealership are you picking the car up from ? Acura of Boston or Acura of Peabody? See if they can loan you a 6 speed for a few days before you take actual delivery of the car.
I doubt that they would have a loaner manual Acura as a loaner, you may want to try renting one from Hertz or any of the other companies, get thoroughly acquainted with the transmission before practicing on the new TL. You dont wnat to smoke the clutch on a brand new car :-/
For practice, get to a local mall parking light during after hours. If you need any sort of help then PM me. I think another option would be to just take you to Hanscom AFB.
I doubt that they would have a loaner manual Acura as a loaner, you may want to try renting one from Hertz or any of the other companies, get thoroughly acquainted with the transmission before practicing on the new TL. You dont wnat to smoke the clutch on a brand new car :-/
For practice, get to a local mall parking light during after hours. If you need any sort of help then PM me. I think another option would be to just take you to Hanscom AFB.
But yea, my friend is taking me to a deserted parking lot so I can do some learning with him. Probably have enough time to spend like an hour with him. From there, and reading all the great posts from SouthernBoy about MT, I should be able to have the basics and practice it myself.
The good thing is that I'm not totally new to the MT world, my friend taught me when i was like 16, so i remember the basics but just haven't had any practical usage in like 13 years...
One more day!!
10-14-2009, 10:46 AM
#24
Detail Cars in Philly in
ha i did the same thing with my tsx, i had tried driving a stick like once before i got the tsx. THen learned the day i got it and have nothing but fun since then
10-14-2009, 11:05 AM
#25
Advanced
The Burlington Mall is a great place to practice after hours. There's a lot of flat space and some hills when you go to get out of the mall parking lot.
10-14-2009, 12:34 PM
#28
Since I spend more time here I might as well find a dealer with a good service department. My 09 AWD is only a month old.
10-14-2009, 01:39 PM
#29
Drifting
Thread Starter
Pete, sorry to hijack your thread but how's their Service department? I live in NJ but come up to the Boston area to work on a project (about a year in duration!!!!). My location is on Soldiers Field Road and I know they are on the same road.
Since I spend more time here I might as well find a dealer with a good service department. My 09 AWD is only a month old.
Since I spend more time here I might as well find a dealer with a good service department. My 09 AWD is only a month old.
So i can't speak to anything other than general maintenance.Compared to other places I've taken cars (Herb Chambers Saab for my wife's old car). A of B is awesome. Herb Chambers would always try to screw us someway or another... they really suck.
10-14-2009, 02:17 PM
#30
I don't think that ANY rental car company has a manual transmission car to rent these days. I've requested one every time I rented a car (and I used to rent cars at a rate of once per month for a year and a half) and never got one. I wouldn't pursue your time on finding out for yourself, explore other options like relatives or good friends who have a manual and will let you borrow it.
10-14-2009, 02:24 PM
#31
you have to be really bad to stall on the new 6spd sh-awd. me and my friend went to go test drive it. it has enough torque (pretty good amount actually) that it would be hard to stall.
10-14-2009, 02:37 PM
#32
Advanced
Pete, sorry to hijack your thread but how's their Service department? I live in NJ but come up to the Boston area to work on a project (about a year in duration!!!!). My location is on Soldiers Field Road and I know they are on the same road.
Since I spend more time here I might as well find a dealer with a good service department. My 09 AWD is only a month old.
Since I spend more time here I might as well find a dealer with a good service department. My 09 AWD is only a month old.
As for sales, after buying 5 cars from them over the years, they wouldnt make any deals. Couldn't care less about my business. I now live in metowest and go to Herb Connolly Acura and have had no issues. Not as nice of a service department but they have always treated me well.
10-14-2009, 02:39 PM
#33
'10 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
Prior to the purchase of the 2009 Si I had never driven a 6M/T before, it took my brother and I about 3~4 hours of driving to finally get it down, you already know the basics so you'll be fine. Enjoy the new Acura and Congratulations!~
10-15-2009, 10:27 PM
#35
Drifting
Thread Starter
Well... picked up the car today, and all I can say is Wow... Had my friend drive it to a well lit open parking lot, and we practiced starts for about 30 min, then after dinner we did more starts (where i was getting some smooth, but slow, take offs), and proceeded to a larger clear stretch where I could get into 2nd and 3rd.
Then my friend left me and my wife, and I had to drive it home. Totally uneventful, not many cars on the road at the time. I too the highway figuring it would be a bit easer (it was). On the way home I drove by another large well lit parking lot (Riverside T station for you fellow Massholes) We then practiced some more starts, parking (reverse) etc... I feel much more confident, and it's starting to make sense. Only have stalled a couple times while starting off, but after a 2nd I'm running again.
I was only able to take a couple photos, it was dark, and starting to rain, but the underbody spoiler really makes this car (imho). Sorry for the sucky quality...I'll post some more after a nice day when i can wash and wax this beauty.
Until then Enjoy.
Then my friend left me and my wife, and I had to drive it home. Totally uneventful, not many cars on the road at the time. I too the highway figuring it would be a bit easer (it was). On the way home I drove by another large well lit parking lot (Riverside T station for you fellow Massholes) We then practiced some more starts, parking (reverse) etc... I feel much more confident, and it's starting to make sense. Only have stalled a couple times while starting off, but after a 2nd I'm running again.
I was only able to take a couple photos, it was dark, and starting to rain, but the underbody spoiler really makes this car (imho). Sorry for the sucky quality...I'll post some more after a nice day when i can wash and wax this beauty.
Until then Enjoy.
Looks great...
10-18-2009, 05:33 AM
#39
Intermediate
Join Date: May 2007
Age: 41
Posts: 44
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Awesome. Did you go with the HPT's? looks like the stock 19's.
Can you post up a pic of the interior. Our dealerships still haven't gotten any in yet
Can you post up a pic of the interior. Our dealerships still haven't gotten any in yet
Last edited by naphta94; 10-18-2009 at 05:36 AM.
10-18-2009, 01:16 PM
#40
Burning Brakes
Well... picked up the car today, and all I can say is Wow... Had my friend drive it to a well lit open parking lot, and we practiced starts for about 30 min, then after dinner we did more starts (where i was getting some smooth, but slow, take offs), and proceeded to a larger clear stretch where I could get into 2nd and 3rd.
Then my friend left me and my wife, and I had to drive it home. Totally uneventful, not many cars on the road at the time. I too the highway figuring it would be a bit easer (it was). On the way home I drove by another large well lit parking lot (Riverside T station for you fellow Massholes) We then practiced some more starts, parking (reverse) etc... I feel much more confident, and it's starting to make sense. Only have stalled a couple times while starting off, but after a 2nd I'm running again.
I was only able to take a couple photos, it was dark, and starting to rain, but the underbody spoiler really makes this car (imho). Sorry for the sucky quality...I'll post some more after a nice day when i can wash and wax this beauty.
Until then Enjoy.
Then my friend left me and my wife, and I had to drive it home. Totally uneventful, not many cars on the road at the time. I too the highway figuring it would be a bit easer (it was). On the way home I drove by another large well lit parking lot (Riverside T station for you fellow Massholes) We then practiced some more starts, parking (reverse) etc... I feel much more confident, and it's starting to make sense. Only have stalled a couple times while starting off, but after a 2nd I'm running again.
I was only able to take a couple photos, it was dark, and starting to rain, but the underbody spoiler really makes this car (imho). Sorry for the sucky quality...I'll post some more after a nice day when i can wash and wax this beauty.
Until then Enjoy.
that color looks really nice at night!