Manual vs Automatic cars

Key takeaways

• Automatic cars are usually easier to drive than manual cars, especially in heavy traffic

• Car insurance for automatics normally costs more than for manual cars as they can be more expensive to buy and fix

• Legally, you can’t drive a manual car if you passed your driving test in an automatic

• Electric vehicles are growing in popularity and most are automatics

Manual or automatic, which is best?

The main difference between automatic and manual cars is the type of gearbox. In a manual car, the driver changes gears, while in an automatic car, the car changes gears automatically without the need for the driver to do anything.

A manual has three pedals: the brake, the accelerator, and the clutch. The driver presses the clutch while manually changing gears using the gearbox. An automatic car has two pedals: the accelerator and the brake.

Manuals take more skill to drive but can be both more powerful and fuel efficient. Automatics are easier to master and can be less tiring in stop-start traffic.

Are automatic cars more expensive?

Yes, there tends to be a notable price difference between automatic and manual cars, with automatics more expensive to buy, maintain and insure.

Most electric and hybrid cars are automatics, and these are generally more expensive to buy and insure than manual petrol cars.

Can I drive a manual on my license?

If you take your driving test in an automatic, legally you’ll only be able to drive automatic cars. You won't be able to drive a manual car without taking another driving test.

If you pass in a manual, you can drive either. This is because driving a manual car requires more skill.

What’s it like driving a manual car?

You have more control in a manual; his can be advantageous for driving on hilly terrain or in challenging conditions.

In general, manual cars can be more fuel-efficient because they allow you to control when to shift gears. Manuals also cost less than automatics upfront, and the maintenance is typically cheaper.

On the downside, they’re harder to learn in and require more effort as you need to change gears frequently, especially in city traffic.

What’s it like driving an automatic car?

Automatic cars are easier to learn in and to drive, as you don’t have to worry about shifting gears. They can be more relaxing, both around town and on long trips as you don’t need to change gears constantly.

However, automatics are often more expensive to buy and repair than manuals. They tend to be less fuel efficient too. You also have less control than in a manual, which might be an issue in certain driving conditions.

Manual vs automatic

The choice between a manual and an automatic car depends on personal preferences, driving habits, and specific needs.

The preference for one over the other often boils down to the driver's desire for control versus convenience, as well as their lifestyle, budget, and personal comfort with the vehicle's operation.

A manual gearbox offers more control of your vehicle whereas an automatic gearbox allows the car to do most of the work for you.

Before making a decision, think about where you drive the most. Are you driving in heavy traffic around town or zooming down the motorway?

In the UK, the traditional preference has been for manual cars, but as hybrid and electric vehicles gain traction, the trend is shifting towards automatics.

What is a semi-automatic car?

For those seeking a middle ground, semi-automatic cars could be the answer. These vehicles eliminate the clutch pedal by adding a dual-clutch but still allow for manual gear selection through paddle shifters or a modified gearstick.

Which is better: manual or automatic cars?

Here are some pros and cons of both manual and automatic cars.

Pros of manual cars

• Faster acceleration and more control in challenging driving conditions

• Cheaper to purchase and maintain because the gearbox technology is less complex than that of automatics

• Manual licence allows you to drive both manual and automatic cars

Cons of manual cars

• Can be more skill-intensive and exhausting, particularly in heavy traffic

• More difficult to learn in

• Stalling a car is very common, especially on hills

• Clutch control can be difficult to maintain on long journeys

Pros and cons of automatic transmission cars

Pros

• Offer a more relaxed driving experience, especially in congested traffic

• They are generally easier for novices to learn and master

• Gear shifting is often smoother

Cons

• The initial purchase and maintenance costs can be higher for automatic cars

• Historically, automatics were less fuel-efficient, but this gap is closing with technological advancements

• If you pass your test in an automatic, you’re not allowed to drive a manual

Which type of car is most fuel efficient?

Traditionally, manual cars were more fuel-efficient than automatic cars because manual transmission gave drivers more control over when to shift gears, allowing them to optimise fuel usage.

However, this has changed significantly with modern advancements in automatic transmission technology. Modern automatics, especially those with ‘continuously variable transmissions’ (CVTs) and dual-clutch systems, can be just as efficient as manuals. These systems are designed to keep the engine in the most optimal rev range, improving fuel economy.

Fuel efficiency of either type of car is also influenced by the vehicle's age, make, and model, and how it’s driven.

Will manual cars still be available in the future?

Manual cars are expected to become less common in the future, as electric vehicles become more popular – and most electric cars are automatics.

The UK Government plans to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars from 2030. The ban is intended to reduce CO2 emissions and encourage the use of electric vehicles.

However, you’ll still be able to drive petrol and diesel cars and buy them second-hand.

Insurance costs

Automatic car insurance tends to cost more than insurance for manual vehicles. This is because automatics are usually of a higher specification and more expensive to buy. Also, an automatic gearbox costs more to repair than a manual gearbox if something goes wrong.

However, insurance costs for both types of cars will also depend on several other factors. These include:

• The car’s make and model

• The insurance group the car is in

• Where you keep the car at night

• How many miles you drive a year

• Any no claims bonus you hold

• Previous driving convictions

• Your age and where you live

• Your job and relationship status

• Whether you pay annually or monthly

Comparing quotes through MoneySuperMarket is the best way to find the cheapest premiums for your car, you can also find cover to drive in Europe and also get include breakdown cover in your policy. Compare insurance prices here.