For a car movement, transmission is an important part of the machine. It allows vehicles to change gears and transfer the power of the engine to the drive axle in an efficient way.

Automatic transmission option is now available in most of the cars in India. So, you might be in confusion if you can also afford the automatic transmission model. It is not easy to answer what is better, but both have their own advantages. If you are not sure what models should you choose and why, this article is to help you. In this article, I will explain the basic differences of manual and automatic transmissions. You must know these things before you make your buying decision.

Before I start, let me explain what exactly is the transmission. It is a mechanical system that provides uses gears and gear trains to provide speed and torque conversions from engine’s rotating power source. In this article, I am not going to talk about how manual or automatic transmission work. That is bit technical thing to talk in this general article.

Manual vs. Automatic Transmission

Manual transmission

Manual transmission or stick-shift allows the driver to change gears, To change the gears, release the clutch, select the desired gear and press engage the clutch again. Most of the people belong to a current generation of drivers are those who learned on manual transmission and they prefer this over automatic transmission models.

Here are the key benefits of Manual transmission.

• Cheaper to maintain: The manual transmission gearbox is not tightly packed as in automatic transmission. It is easier to open and repair. The Manual transmission cars also require very little maintenance.
• Less expensive: In general, the models with manual transmission are always cheaper than models with automatic transmission with same features.
• Better fuel efficiency: If the car has a manual transmission, it saves around 5% to 15% fuel as compared to an automatic transmission car. So, it offers better fuel efficiency and supports your pocket.
• Better control:  The manual transmission offers better control as you are the one responsible for shifting hears and choosing the engine power for a specific condition.

Automatic transmission

The automatic transmission is the newer option in the Indian market. Once it was considered a luxury, but now it is available in entry-level models with the little higher price. The automatic transmission also has its own advantages over manual transmissions.

Here are the key benefits of Automatic transmission.

• Easier to use: Even if shifting gears manually is not tough, but the automatic transmission is simpler and it takes less time to learn. In the manual transmission, it takes a bit of practice before you master the manual gear shifting.
• Reduced risk of stalling: There could be embarrassing moments when you accidentally stall your vehicle right in the middle of traffic. This is common in manual transmission but not in automatic transmission. In an automatic transmission, stalling will occur only when there is a mechanical problem.
• Easier to use in heavy traffic: Automatic transmission is easier as you only need to push a single pedal.
• Better for hilly areas: In hilly areas, the car needs power. If you are a less experienced driver, you will find it hard to navigate at steep inclines. In an automatic transmission, the car takes or this issue and operates efficiently.

Which Should You Buy?

It depends on your choice and needs. If your budget is tight, you can always go with the manual transmission model. It also offers better fuel efficiency and hence pocket-friendly as compared to automatic transmission models. On the other hand, automatic transmissions are easier to use and comfortable while driving through high traffic.