## The Ultimate Guide to the Best Manual Transmission Cars
For driving enthusiasts, there’s nothing quite like the raw, engaging experience of a manual transmission. The tactile feedback, the precise control, and the sense of accomplishment that comes with mastering the art of shifting gears are unparalleled.
But not all manual transmissions are created equal. Some are smooth and easy to operate, while others are clunky and imprecise. If you’re in the market for a new car with a manual transmission, it’s important to do your research and find one that suits your needs.
To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the best manual transmission cars on the market today. These cars offer a variety of driving experiences, from the budget-friendly to the high-performance, so you’re sure to find one that’s perfect for you.
### What to Look for in a Manual Transmission Car
When shopping for a manual transmission car, there are a few key things to keep in mind:
Shift feel: The shift feel is the most important factor to consider when choosing a manual transmission car. It should be smooth, precise, and easy to operate. Avoid cars with clunky or imprecise shifters, as they can make driving a chore.
Clutch feel: The clutch feel is also important, as it can affect how easy it is to drive the car. A good clutch should be light and easy to modulate, without being too grabby or too slippery.
Gear ratios: The gear ratios determine how the car accelerates and how it performs at different speeds. Higher gear ratios provide better fuel economy and top-end speed, while lower gear ratios provide better acceleration and low-end torque. Choose gear ratios that suit your driving needs.
Reliability: Manual transmissions are generally more reliable than automatic transmissions, but there are still some models that are more prone to problems than others. Do your research and choose a car with a reputation for reliability.
### The Best Manual Transmission Cars
Now that you know what to look for, here are our picks for the best manual transmission cars on the market today:
Mazda MX-5 Miata: The Mazda MX-5 Miata has been a favorite among driving enthusiasts for decades, and for good reason. It’s lightweight, agile, and has one of the best manual transmissions on the market. The shifter is precise and easy to operate, and the clutch feel is light and forgiving. The MX-5 Miata is also very reliable, making it a great choice for daily driving or weekend track days.
BMW M240i: The BMW M240i is a compact sports car that offers a thrilling driving experience. It’s powered by a turbocharged inline-six engine that produces 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The M240i comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission that’s smooth and precise. The clutch feel is also excellent, making the M240i a joy to drive.
Honda Civic Si: The Honda Civic Si is a hot hatch that offers a great balance of performance and affordability. It’s powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 205 horsepower and 192 pound-feet of torque. The Civic Si comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission that’s light and easy to operate. The clutch feel is also very good, making the Civic Si a great choice for beginners and experienced drivers alike.
Toyota GR Corolla: The Toyota GR Corolla is a new hot hatch that’s based on the Toyota Corolla hatchback. It’s powered by a turbocharged three-cylinder engine that produces 300 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. The GR Corolla comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission that’s precise and easy to operate. The clutch feel is also very good, making the GR Corolla a great choice for driving enthusiasts.
Subaru WRX STI: The Subaru WRX STI is a legendary rally car that’s been a favorite among driving enthusiasts for decades. It’s powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter boxer engine that produces 310 horsepower and 290 pound-feet of torque. The WRX STI comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission that’s smooth and precise. The clutch feel is also excellent, making the WRX STI a joy to drive.
### Conclusion
If you’re looking for a new car with a manual transmission, there are plenty of great options to choose from. The cars on our list offer a variety of driving experiences, from the budget-friendly to the high-performance, so you’re sure to find one that’s perfect for you. Just be sure to do your research and choose a car with a reputation for reliability.
### Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of a manual transmission?
Manual transmissions are more efficient than automatic transmissions, as they don’t have to use a torque converter. This can lead to better fuel economy and performance.
Manual transmissions give drivers more control over the driving experience, as they can choose the gear that’s best for the current driving conditions.
Manual transmissions are generally more reliable than automatic transmissions, as they have fewer moving parts.
What are the drawbacks of a manual transmission?
Manual transmissions can be more difficult to drive than automatic transmissions, especially for beginners.
Manual transmissions can be tiring to drive in stop-and-go traffic, as the driver has to constantly shift gears.
Manual transmissions are not as common as automatic transmissions, so it can be more difficult to find a car with a manual transmission.
Is a manual transmission right for me?
If you’re looking for a car that’s fun to drive, efficient, and reliable, then a manual transmission is a great option. However, if you’re not comfortable driving a manual transmission or if you drive in a lot of stop-and-go traffic, then an automatic transmission may be a better choice.