by Krystle Hernandez

Created on: March 25, 2007   Last Updated: April 23, 2007

Both transmissions serve the same purpose: to allow the engine to operate in its narrow range of speeds while providing a wide range of output speeds. Otherwise, cars would be limited to one gear ratio and that ratio would have to be selected to allow the car to travel at the top speed.

Due to gear ratios and the capability of more precise shifting, manual transmissions offer superior acceleration rates and the most power from your car's engine. These transmissions offer better performance for lower prices, and the added benefit of a higher fuel economy. Many factors contribute to the longevity of your manual transmission's clutch disc, which needs occasional replacement, including driving style, the material the clutch disc is manufactured from, and the amount of overall city versus highway driving the clutch experiences. Although manual transmissions are typically less expensive to repair, replacing a clutch is quite a pricey procedure at most repair shops.

Alternatively, automatic transmissions, which shift gears automatically, require much more service than manuals. They get a slighter lower fuel economy rate, and are typically more expensive. Regardless, however, CVT transmissions and conventional four or five speed automatics will allow for excellent overall acceleration.

In recent years, however, the inclusion of manu-matic (or combination manual/automatic transmission) in newly released vehicle models have proven to be a much more accurate mixture of acceleration, power, and fuel economy than either previously existing transmission style.

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