If you’re like most Canadians, then driving a car is simply a way of life. There is not a single more efficient way to get from one place to another, with public transportation and walking being considerably slower and less reliable. It is in this search for efficiency that many people have made the transition from cars with standard transmissions to cars with automatic transmissions, and while the convenience of an automatic can indeed be alluring, there are many circumstances in which a standard transmission is in fact the better choice.
The first thing to understand about standard transmissions is that they are not at all difficult to use. Prior to the widespread utility of automatics a few decades ago, standard cars were all that people drove. To put things into perspective, motorbikes all function on what is essentially a manual transmission – the only difference between automatics and standards is the need to switch the gears yourself as well as controlling the clutch. After a little practice, these actions become second nature whilst simultaneously giving the driver more control over their machine.
There are numerous reasons to choose a standard over an automatic. The first and foremost however, is exclusivity. Research has indicated that less than 3% of all cars sold in the United States are standard, and while this number is slightly higher in Canada, the fact remains that driving a manual transmission is a lost art. If you want to stand out from the crowd by possessing a skill that many forego for the sake of convenience,when you buy or lease your next exotic car ask for a standard.
Another important reason to consider a standard transmission is the preservation of the driving experience. Many luxury and exotic cars are standard so as to allow their drivers the ability to develop a deeper connection with their automobiles. The relationship between man and machine in a standard transmission car is truly symbiotic. While some large car companies are opting out of standard options, driving enthusiasts still have many options in the luxury market.
So if you enjoy the thrill of driving in a way that can simply not be satiated by an automatic transmission, buy a standard car. If you are looking for a machine that is specifically designed to provide the utmost in luxury and performance, be sure to buy it with a manual transmission.
Finally, if you simply want the bragging rights that come with being able to operate an automobile in a way that most people today are simply incapable of, that’s another reason to opt for a manual transmission. These are some of the best reasons to go old school and get your next car standard. Just make sure to ask yourself before you buy or lease your next luxury car if you are prepared to go all the way to learn this lost art – if the answer is yes, then you’re in for a real treat!
